Definition
Autohypnosis is the practice of entering a focused, relaxed, highly suggestible state through self-directed cues — so inner imagery and sensation can be trained without an external hypnotist.
Origin
Self-hypnosis sits on the same spectrum as clinician-guided hypnosis: narrowed attention, reduced peripheral critique, and heightened responsiveness to imagined scenarios. Historically used for pain management, anxiety regulation, and performance rehearsal.
Mechanism
Overlaps Imagination as Reality — vivid inner scenes recruit overlapping neural systems with outer perception, so imagined safety or rehearsal can shift physiology before behaviour changes. Distinct from passive fantasy: autohypnosis adds structure (script, place, breath, repetition).
Applications
Build a repeatable safe place script; rehearse procedure tolerance; pair with Anchoring cues so state becomes callable in under a minute.
Sources
Cite
- Kirsch, I. (1994). Clinical hypnosis as a nondeceptive placebo. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 42(4), 336–352
- Lynn, S. J., & Kirsch, I. (2006). Essentials of clinical hypnosis: An evidence-based approach. American Psychological Association.
Related doctrine
Anchoring · Three Types of Imagery