HYPNOSIS AND SLEEP-LEARNING: Page 99

In 1957, Pope Pius XII sanctioned the use of hypnosis as an anaesthetic. A recent article on hypnosis in Life magazine, while noting that hypnosis is not, most certainly, a cure-all, and will not bring recovery from illness except when used along with other medical treatment, describes its potential value in treatment of a physical illness where there is a definite emotional element involved. Among the problems mentioned as responsive to help by hypnotherapy are asthma, anxieties, compulsions, phobias, and harmful habits such as excessive smoking, drug affliction and alcoholism. Hypnotism may also help strengthen a desire to live, or bring peace of mind, according to this report. It can, by suggestion, set off conditioned reflexes and even affect physiological processes. Apparently hypnotherapy will not work on everybody. Perhaps 15% of the population is resistant to it, for reasons of extreme youth (children under four) or senility; feeble mindedness; and various emotional or mental health conditions. Of the rest, it is calculated that 85% can achieve a light trance, 60% can achieve the second stage, and about 40% the deep stage. Only about 20% can be somnambules. But since the trance depth can be increased by practice, perhaps those experts who say every normal person is a potential somnambule are right. No matter, since the very deep trances are not required for effective hypnosis. The benefits of hypnosis can be had while in the lightest stages, upon total acceptance of the suggestions offered. Life reports that the most important aspect of hypnosis lies in its capacity to relieve stress and anxiety.