[1] Frequently, self-hypnosis is used as a vehicle to enhance the efficacy of self-suggestion; and, in such cases, the subject "plays the dual role of suggester and suggestee".
[4] Based upon their distinctions, "self-hypnosis" practices can be separated into, at least, thirteen different types:[5] The English term "hypnotism" was introduced in 1841 by the Scottish physician and surgeon James Braid.
On the forenoon of the next day, whilst visiting my patients, every jolt of the carriage I could only compare to several sharp instruments being thrust through my shoulder, neck, and chest.
When I returned home for dinner I could neither turn my head, lift my arm, nor draw a breath, without suffering extreme pain.
I requested two friends, who were present, and who both understood the system, to watch the effects, and arouse me when I had passed sufficiently into the condition; and, with their assurance that they would give strict attention to their charge, I sat down and hypnotised myself, extending the extremities.
A week thereafter I had a slight return, which I removed by hypnotising myself once more; and I have remained quite free from rheumatism ever since, now nearly six years.Émile Coué was one of the most influential figures in the subsequent development of self-hypnosis.
Hypnosis may help pain management,[14] anxiety,[15][16] depression,[17] sleep disorders,[18] obesity, asthma, and skin conditions.
Through practicing self-hypnosis, patients can learn to isolate the feared pain that accompanies many a medical intervention; they can productively dissociate themselves into a position in which they can enjoy pleasurable fantasies and memories, away from the negative aspects of their current reality.
[24] Reviewing the findings of three previous studies in this area, John F. Kihlstrom concluded: "Comparisons of self-hypnosis with more traditional 'hetero'-hypnosis show that they are highly correlated.