Bubbling Icy Brook (relaxation meditation)

Self hypnosis basically is a method that quiets and relaxes your body. It places you in an altered state, not unlike that of which is achieved in meditation. A vital aspect of this technique is mental imagery which helps you to focus inward.

The imagery may involve the descending a set of stairs or visualizing a quiet spot that like a deserted beach. Some individuals visualize walking barefoot through a forest with soft moss gently caressing their feet, a relaxing brook bubbling in the background and even the smell of the damp earthiness of the forest floor surrounding them.


Self hypnosis is one of the least understood health-related therapies used today. Some experts believe that self hypnosis causes the brain to release natural substances which affect your perception of pain as well as other symptoms of your health problems. Another theory proposes that this method allows you to actually control the reactions of your body through your unconscious mind.

While there are many similarities between hypnosis and self hypnosis, there are some differentiating factors. In self hypnosis you are completely in charge. You choose your own time limits that you stay in your alpha state, you choose what health concerns you emphasize and you choose when you do this. With this freedom, you can adjust your self-hypnosis schedules to fit your lifestyle as well as to discover the most effective time and length of session to be beneficial.


Self hypnosis is also a wonderful tool to treat stress – which in itself is the underlying cause of many chronic health conditions. Not only that, but stress can exasperate any health problem. Even if all self hypnosis does for you is to help you manage the many stressors that are lurking everywhere with today’s busy lifestyle, it’s performed a valuable function.

But self hypnosis can also help you achieve many healthy lifestyle changes in your life as well. You can go into your alpha state to reinforce your desire to follow an exercise program regularly. But it can also be a boost to helping you get rid of unhealthy habits as well. That’s why so many people use hypnosis to lose weight and quit smoking.

Self hypnosis is not a technique that everyone can use easily, though. Some individuals find that as much as they try they can’t overcome their initial prejudices and preconceived ideas about the stereotypical aspects of hypnosis. Others find that they can’t produce that relaxed alpha state required for the hypnotic suggestions to become fully embedded in their subconscious.

It’s true that self hypnosis requires more focus and more practice than some alternative health methods, like exercise. But having said that, self hypnosis may also be a great choice for an individual who cannot fully participate in many exercises.