Radiation and chemotherapy treatments for cancer patients often come with a myriad of side effects which can range from mild discomfort to severe symptoms that diminish the quality of life. The good news is that there is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment method that has been proven to alleviate these side effects, and that’s hypnotherapy. Hypnosis has been a powerful resource to help people access their inner resources and promote healing for over 200 years. In this article, I’ll delve into the relationship between hypnosis and radiation or chemotherapy, its benefits, how it works, and what to expect from a hypnotherapy session.
I recently helped a client whose saliva glands and taste buds were severely affected by radiation treatment for a tumor in his mouth. All of his saliva glands on one side of his mouth were permanently destroyed, and everything he tried to eat tasted putrid or rotten. As a result, he was receiving his nutrition from a feeding tube. He received wonderful results from hypnosis. Food began tasting normal, and his functioning saliva glands began compensating for the ones that were destroyed. Hypnosis restored his quality of life and it only took two sessions.
What is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation and focused concentration that bypasses the conscious mind and allows access to the subconscious mind where our beliefs, emotions, and memories are stored. During this trance-like state, the hypnotist can offer positive suggestions that help reprogram negative self-talk and beliefs that may be blocking the natural healing power of the mind. Hypnosis is not mind control, and it can’t make a person do anything against their will or moral code. Hypnosis is a collaboration between the hypnotist and the participant. The hypnotist is a guide who helps the person tap into their own inner resources.
How Hypnosis Helps with the Side Effects of Radiation and Chemotherapy
Hypnosis is a powerful complementary method that can help lessen the severity and impact of the side effects that accompany radiation or chemotherapy. For example, hypnosis can reduce the nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy or radiation therapy, lower anxiety levels, lessen pain, promote relaxation, and improve sleep. In addition, hypnosis can also help enhance coping mechanisms by reducing negative thinking patterns and promoting positive self-talk. The effect of hypnosis is unique to each person as the mind and body respond individually to the hypnotic suggestions.
Conclusion:
The benefits of hypnosis for the relief of radiation and chemotherapy-side effects are numerous, and little downside to seeking this type of therapy. Hypnosis can help eradicate or lower the body's reaction to various side effects, including nausea and vomiting, pain, and sleep problems, among many others. Therefore, if you or someone you know is undergoing medical treatment and struggling with the side effects, hypnotherapy may be an alternative method worth getting involved. It is absolutely essential to reach out to a qualified hypnotherapist and seek professional help to ensure you get the best possible results. With hypnosis, you can activate your innate healing power and achieve a better quality of life.
