Autohypnotism is a practice where one induces self-hypnosis. The word's spelling is based on its Greek roots: auto meaning "self" and hypnotismos meaning "putting to sleep." It is pronounced /ˌɑːtoʊ.hɪpˈnoʊ.tɪzəm/ with the emphasis on the second syllable. The "auto" is pronounced like "ought-to" and the "hypno" sounds like "hip-no." The final "tism" is pronounced like "tizm." Autohypnotism has been used for therapeutic purposes, such as managing anxiety and pain, and for self-improvement, including boosting confidence and achieving personal goals.
Autohypnotism is a term used to describe the process by which an individual induces a hypnotic state in themselves, without the assistance of an external hypnotist. It refers to the ability to self-hypnotize and enter a trance-like state through the power of one's own mind. During autohypnotism, the individual is capable of altering their consciousness, accessing deeper levels of their subconscious, and influencing their thoughts, behaviors, and physical sensations.
The process of autohypnotism often involves relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided imagery, to achieve a state of heightened suggestibility and focus. Once in this altered state, individuals can utilize self-suggestion and visualization to bring about desired changes in their mindset, emotions, or physiological responses.
Autohypnotism has been used for various purposes, including self-improvement, pain management, stress reduction, and personal development. By harnessing their own inner resources and imagination, individuals can tap into their subconscious mind to instigate positive changes, overcome fears or phobias, enhance motivation, or improve physical well-being.
While autohypnotism does not typically involve external guidance, individuals may initially learn techniques from trained hypnotists or use pre-recorded hypnosis sessions as a starting point. Mastery of autohypnotism requires practice, focus, and concentration to achieve a state of focused attention and deep relaxation necessary for the induction and utilization of the hypnotic state. It is important to note that autohypnotism should be practiced responsibly and under appropriate conditions, as it can have profound effects on one's thoughts, emotions, and overall well-being.
The word "autohypnotism" is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "auto" meaning "self" and "hypnotism" referring to a state of induced sleep or trance-like state.
Specifically, the term "hypnotism" comes from the Greek word "hypnos" meaning "sleep" or "hypnosis", which refers to an altered state of consciousness characterized by relaxation, heightened suggestibility, and focused attention. The term was coined by James Braid, a Scottish surgeon and researcher, in the 1840s.
By adding the prefix "auto-" to "hypnotism", the resulting compound word "autohypnotism" signifies self-induced hypnosis or a technique of inducing the hypnotic state on oneself without external assistance. This term is often used in the context of self-hypnosis or self-induced trance-like states.