#4: The Intriguing World of Trance and Hypnosis: Insights from Neuroscience

Understanding Trance and Hypnosis

Our enlightening conversation with Dr McIvor taught us that while trance and hypnosis share similarities, they are distinct in practice and neurological impact. Trance refers to a temporary altered state where focus turns inward and becomes more malleable to suggestions. Hypnosis, on the other hand, involves intentionally guiding a person into a trance state and then using specific suggestions to facilitate therapeutic change.

The Neuroscience Behind the Scenes

Both trance and hypnosis activate similar neural patterns, marked by decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for critical thinking, and a reduction in attentional hubs like the anterior cingulate cortex. Hypnosis uniquely stimulates areas associated with heightened imagination and self-referential processing, setting the stage for embedding transformative suggestions.

The Role of Relaxation and Brain Waves

Relaxation is a key component, paving the way for trance by calming the brain's vigilant centres. However, absorption and dissociation can be equally effective in reducing anxiety and facilitating trance. In hypnosis, a shift from alpha to theta and delta waves occurs, indicating relaxation and subconscious access, which is crucial for the trance state.

The Power of Brain Plasticity in Hypnosis

A fascinating aspect of hypnosis is its ability to reshape neural pathways through brain plasticity. Appropriately integrated suggestions can lead to the formation of new self-narratives, emotional conclusions, or behaviour patterns, demonstrating the brain's remarkable capacity to adapt and evolve.

Practical Guidance for Navigating Trance and Hypnosis

Dr McIvor advises approaching trance and hypnotic suggestion as potent healing modalities, emphasising the importance of working with licensed professionals who adhere to ethical standards. It's crucial to align therapeutic suggestions with one's values and worldview for authentic and resonant integration.

Key Takeaways

Understanding trance and hypnosis through the lens of neuroscience enriches professional practices and personal well-being. These states of mind offer keys to unlock more receptive and transformative mental states. 

 In this episode of Stress Less Live More, you’ll hear about:

• 🢖 3:12: The Distinction Between Trance and Hypnosis

• 🢖 4:05: Common Trance Experiences

• 🢖 4:49: Neurological Underpinnings of Trance States

• 🢖 5:24: The Science Behind Hypnosis

• 🢖 7:38: The Role of Relaxation and Brain Waves in Hypnosis

• 🢖 9:19: Brain Plasticity and Hypnotic Suggestions

• 🢖 11:34: Practical Advice for Navigating Trance and Hypnosis for Coaching and Personal Well-being

Rate, Review, and Follow on Apple Podcasts