Did You Know Hypnosis Is More Than an Alpha State?

When it comes to hypnosis, it is often the alpha state that is mentioned as playing a dominant role in the process. As we explore the different levels of the mind, you will find that there are essentially four varying levels that are considered basic. In between these levels, there are several others, but when we speak of powerful mind activity, the delta, theta, and beta varieties also accompany the alpha state.

In order to get a grasp on the material concerning hypnosis, you should gain a firm understanding on the different states of the mind. First, we will start with the alpha state, which is the most familiar piece to the hypnosis puzzle. The alpha state is considered the first level that we encounter during moments of trance.

A trance is an altered state of consciousness, which is often associated with hypnosis and deals with an altered state of awareness. In regards to hypnosis, the alpha state is regarded as one of the most useful levels to turn towards, even though it is thought to be the mildest of the bunch.

Now, before we touch upon the delta and the theta states of awareness, we will take a look at the beta state, which serves as our normal state of consciousness. During this time, we are wide-awake and aware of all that is going on around us. This is the state of the mind that we deal with on a day-in and day-out basis; it is what propels us throughout the day.

The theta state of mind is discussed when a deeper level of hypnosis is achieved. When it comes to theta brain waves, it possesses a frequency that is connected to drowsiness and hyperventilation. In regards to hypnosis, one may encounter trances, deep day dreams, lucid dreaming, as well as a light sleep through theta brain activity. It is also known to present a preconscious state that exists just before you wake from sleep and presents itself again just before you fall asleep.

Through the delta state of mind, deep levels of sleep are achieved that can be used to repair tissue, as well as aid in recovery. During the stages three and four of sleep, this level is prevalent.

All through the day and during sessions of hypnosis, these levels are experienced. To get a picture of how they affect our lives, you encounter the beta state at the start of each morning. By the end of the day, we encounter the alpha and theta levels just before we enter REM, which is considered our dream state. As we continue through REM, we reach the delta level, which precedes the state in which we become awake again. Just with the cycle of awake and sleep, these levels influence our lives. It is these same influences that make an appearance during a session of hypnotism.

Why Are the Beta, Theta, and Delta States Are Important to Hypnosis?

The beta state of mind allows individuals to evaluate and react to the things around them. Through this state of mind, we cultivate all of the positive and negative balances in life that show through a session of hypnosis. When we deal with the conscious mind, there are several barriers that exist, which calls for the use of hypnosis.

With the theta state of mind, this level of consciousness is needed to achieve deep sleep and rather deep levels of hypnosis or meditation. Some of the extraordinary accomplishments you hear ordinary people achieving have been associated with the theta state of consciousness. When people walk on coals, eat fire, or control other aspects of their body and bodily functions, it is thought that theta consciousness is behind these kinds of activity. This is why various mystics speak upon the slowing of brain wave patterns as correlating with the alteration of body vibration, which is associated with the belief that the impossible can be accomplished during this time.

Delta consciousness is the level of the mind that is most often seen in comatose states. Through the work of Oliver Sacks, the perception of this level of consciousness has changed over time. He proved that even through this state of mind, you may appear completely unconscious, but you still possess some level of awareness. He is the one who had a movie based upon him ("Awakenings"), as his work showed that he could temporarily awaken most of his patients through the use of extremely heavy doses of dopamine. Even more amazing, some of his patients were able to recall various aspects of their treatment.

Overall, the power of the mind is a grand machine that involves much more than a few states of mind. As you see, when we turn towards hypnosis to "awaken" some of the thoughts and experiences of the past and the present, we tap into the power of many different states other than the familiar alpha state.

Clifford Mee is an author, hypnotist and wilderness explorer. You Can Learn Hypnosis with his Hypnosis Training & Hypnosis Cds at http://www.conversational-hypnosis.com