The History Of Hypnosis Can Be Traced Back Centuries.
'Hypnos' is the Greek word for sleep, though actual state of hypnosis is very different from that of sleep. Primitive societies used hypnotic phenomena throughout the ages for physical and spiritual benefits. Tribal drums and ritualistic dances have been a part of many societies around the globe.
It has even been acknowledged that in the animal world, hypnosis is used by predators to control their prey. In ancient cultures, there were varying methods of hypnosis used in religious ceremonies. These are depicted in pictures from places such as ancient Egypt. Cultures even used drum beats to induce a state of hypnosis in religious ceremonies performed by many different cultures around the world. The history of hypnosis and its foundation can be found around the world.
Discovering The History Of Hypnosis That Is Currently Used
Hypnosis has been used in a variety of ways. From religious beliefs to even controlling chickens, hypnosis has long been useful. In the 1600’s hypnosis was used to help keep chickens calm and there were traveling shows in Germany that focused on hypnotizing animals. The history of hypnosis is a mix of entertainment, religion and the practice of self relaxation and inner change.
When looking into the history of hypnosis, Dr. Franz Anton Mesmer can not be overlooked. This famous physician from Switzerland became famous during the late 1700’s. He initially practice what he termed was magnetism. He would place magnets on patients and then use vibrations to help cure patients. His practices included, using harmonicas, singing, staring into patients eyes, placing his hands in a pyramid shape and having patients stare at it and a variety of other forms of hypnosis. He continued his practices, although never convincing the medical world of its success, until his death in 1815. In the history of hypnosis, Dr. Mesmer was probably the first well know hypnotist.
From then, the history of hypnosis, continues to progress. In 1845, a Scottish Doctor, James Esdale began performing operations in Calcutta, by using hypnosis. He performed around 2000 operations with no pain to patients. The field of hypnosis was even studied by Dr. Freud in his research into psychology. The history of hypnosis then shows that hypnosis became more of a field aligned with psychology than with the medical field.
Using Hypnotism To Heal
Hypnotism as a tool for health seems to have originated with the Hindus of India who often took their sick to sleep temples to be cured by hypnotic suggestion as also found to be the case in Egypt and Greece. The book the Law of Manu, which was the ancient Sanskrit Science of the Indian people, categorized different states of hypnosis discerning different levels of gradation: the "Sleep-Waking" state, the "Dream-Sleep" state, and the "Ecstasy-Sleep" state. Hypnotic-like inductions were used to place the individual in a sleep-like state, although it is now accepted that hypnosis is different from sleep.
Hypnosis And Psychiatry
A psychiatrist named Milton H. Erickson really brought the subject of hypnosis from a form of entertainment, to the forefront in acceptability. He truly believed in the unconscious minds ability to be influenced, and then the potential for change to be created by suggestion. His research helped him discover many techniques for inducing trances in order to help patients overcome fears and change habits.
The use of hypnosis in the treatment of neuroses flourished in World War I, World War II and the Korean War. Hypnosis techniques were merged with psychiatry and was especially useful in the treatment of what is known today as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. William McDougall (1871-1944), an English psychologist, treated soldiers with shell shock.
The history of hypnosis is filled with controversy, and amazing stories. Modern hypnosis has come a long way; and, is now used in many different avenues, including self-help and relaxation techniques. Hypnosis has existed in the plant and animal kingdom in one form or another since time began. In hibernating, animals 'turn inwards' and are able to exist for long periods of time without sustenance.
This material has been provided for your information and is not to be used for illegal purposes. It is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your primary health care provider. You are encouraged to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with your health care provider. The mention
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