According to the Mayo Clinic, some studies have shown that those who participate in hypnosis to aid in weight management lose an average of 6 pounds. However, the Mayo Clinic cautions that the validity of many hypnosis-related studies has been questioned. So, is undergoing hypnosis a viable way to lose weight, or is it too good to be true? And is hypnosis safe?

The Hypnosis for Weight Loss Process

According to the psychology department at Vanderbilt University, hypnosis works in conjunction with other weight management programs to help you consume fewer calories and change your eating and lifestyle habits. Those licensed in hypnotherapy typically use deep breathing exercises and music that alters your brain waves in order to get you into a relaxed state. Once you’re in this relaxed state, hypnotherapists suggest various changes you can make in your life that will influence how you eat and how you live in order to help you lose weight. The idea is that hypnosis will help you get rid of the self-defeating thoughts that cause your unhealthy eating habits.

Those who have undergone hypnosis often compare the relaxed state they’re in while hypnotized to how to how they feel while meditating or on the verge of sleep. During hypnosis, you’re still fully conscious, and hypnotherapists won’t be able to make you do anything you don’t want to do. There’s no evidence to suggest that hypnosis is harmful or unsafe in any way.

Is Hypnosis Effective Enough to Try Out?

As previously mentioned, people who try hypnosis as a weight loss management strategy lose around six pounds on average. However, some people have had much greater success with hypnosis. A few years ago, ABC’s Good Morning America featured a story about a woman who lost a whopping 95 pounds through hypnosis, and you can find plenty of testimonials online from others who had similar success. Still, experts at the Mayo Clinic assert that you shouldn’t rely on hypnosis alone to reach your weight loss goals.

Overall, if hypnosis interests you, it may be worth it to give it a shot. Just don’t expect dramatic results overnight.

Sources:

• “Weight-loss hypnosis: Does it work?” Mayo Clinic
• “Hypnosis Can Help Shed Weight Without Pill Popping,” ABC’s Good Morning America
• “Weight Loss Through Hypnosis?” Bianca Hitt, Vanderbilt University Psychology Department

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