History of Hypnosis
The practice of Hypnosis has been utilized since 3000bc. In ancient Egypt as well as through out the continents,the Greeks,Mayans, Persians,South Americans, Native Americans as well other cultures have used these techniques for various purposes. It was applied as a healing modality in the Aesculapian sleep temples. Where subjects would be taken to heal. Some believe Hypnosis was also used in the New Testement as the laying on of Hands.
Modern Hypnosis began in the 18th century, with well known practioners such as Mesmer,Gassner,Esdaile and Sigmund Freud. Milton Erickson,(1902-1980),the founder of Ericksonian Hypnosis was considered to be the most progressive hypnotherapist of the time. Erickson's work influenced John Grinder and Richard Bandler to create the modality of Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP).
During the Second World War, hypnosis was employed within POW hospitals when anesthetics were not available the results were astounding with reduced healing time and less pain. This success led to increased use of hypnotherapy in mainstream circles. Hypnosis was accepted by the AMA- American Medical Association in the 1950's. It is now well received and used for many physical and mental conditions from stress, headaches, pain of all types, IBS, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, cancer, pain during chldbirth, and dentistry.
There are many well-reputed surgeons who currently use hypnosis when anesthesia isnt recommended, including Brain Surgery. Forensic Hypnosis,is now in practice with amazing results. It aids police and individuals in recall of details involved with crime, when shock and trauma can often block access to a witness's memory of an event. The future of hypnosis is wide open, and where it will go next is anyone's guess.