By Claire Edwards, Clinical Hypnotherapist >
High blood pressure, which is sometimes referred to as hypertension, is a condition that affects millions of people yearly. It is a silent killer and can lead to many complications if left untreated. While there are traditional forms of treatment, such as medication and lifestyle changes, hypnotherapy is a relatively new technique that has shown great promise in reducing high blood pressure.
Understanding Hypnotherapy for High Blood Pressure
Hypnotherapy is a form of therapy that utilises guided relaxation techniques to help patients toward a heightened state of attention and focus. This technique is used to help patients overcome various physical and mental obstacles. When it comes to treating hypertension, hypnotherapy is used to help reduce stress levels, a known contributor to high blood pressure.
Why Should I Choose Hypnotherapy to Treat Hypertension?
One of the primary advantages of hypnotherapy is that it is a non-invasive and non-pharmaceutical form of treatment. Patients do not have to rely on medication or undergo complex surgical procedures, which may have a long recovery time.
Hypnotherapy also offers long-term benefits as it aims to change the habits and behaviours that lead to high blood pressure. Studies have shown that even a year after treatment with hypnotherapy, the benefits are still apparent.
Is Hypnotherapy Effective Against Hypertension?
Research has shown that hypnotherapy can significantly decrease blood pressure levels in hypertensive patients. The relaxation techniques used during hypnotherapy also help reduce stress and anxiety levels, two known contributors to high blood pressure.
The Process of Hypnotherapy
The thought of hypnotherapy daunts some people, and this is primarily due to inaccurate media portrayals of what hypnosis is. The process of hypnotherapy typically involves three stages:
Induction – This is where I will guide the patient into a relaxed state to help them focus. When it comes to treating high blood pressure and hypertension, being able to access this state can be enough to lower blood pressure in the same way as resting.
Suggestion – Once the patient is in a safe, relaxed and receptive state of mind, I can suggest positive affirmations or behaviours to help the patient overcome the issue.
Return – I will then bring the patient back to their normal state of consciousness
During the process, I will also teach the patient self-hypnosis techniques they can practice at home to reinforce the positive suggestions given to them and reduce blood pressure levels on a longer-term basis.
Important Facts to Remember about Hypnotherapy
● Hypnotherapy is safe and is an effective form of treatment for all ages, with no surgical element or recovery time.
● Hypnotherapy can help to reduce the use of medication and, therefore, minimise potential conflicts and side effects.
● Hypnotherapy aims to improve overall mental health and well-being as well as just treat the immediate problem.
Choosing Hypnotherapy to Treat High Blood Pressure / Hypertension
Hypnotherapy offers a safe, effective, and non-invasive form of treatment for high blood pressure and hypertension. This can be ideal for those with heightened stress levels in a traditional medical environment.
I offer a free telephone call to discuss your needs and expectations before a consultation to decide whether hypnotherapy is the best treatment for your circumstances.
Picture: Olev Ivanov
