Hot flashes? Hypnosis helps

Research has shown that hypnosis is very effective for hot flashes. Hot flashes are common and can be very annoying. Fortunately, there is an adequate remedy for it

Hot flashes and hypnosis

Research from the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine shows that you can address hot flashes with hypnotherapy and hypnosis. Good news because 80% of menopausal women experience hot flashes.

Hot flashes are mainly related to the hormones estrogen and progesterone. As long as there is ovulation, these hormones are still produced in sufficient quantities. As women age, the supply of eggs decreases and, as a result, gradually less estrogen and progesterone are also produced.

There is a thermostat in the brain stem that closely monitors your body temperature. This thermostat is also under the influence of estrogens. With a decrease in estrogens in the blood, that thermostat reacts as if your body temperature is too high.

The body responds and wants to get rid of that heat. To get rid of that heat, you start sweating more. This process is also called a hot flash.

You can fight hot flashes with medication, of course, but now hypnosis, too, according to a study of women with hot flashes. The women who were hypnotized received five weekly sessions. During the hypnosis they were given suggestions to create mental images of coolness, a safe place and relaxation.

All the women kept a journal about their hot flashes. In addition, they used a device that recorded the frequency and severity of hot flashes.

After 12 weeks, women in the hypnosis group reported 75 percent fewer hot flashes, compared with 13 percent in the other group. The severity of hot flashes was also significantly less in the hypnosis group.

Why hypnosis reduces hot flashes is not clear. Researchers at Indiana University and the University of Texas believe hypnosis improves the functioning of the parasympathetic nervous system. This part of the nervous system is also called the "rest and process"system.

The parasympathetic nervous system also acts as the brake for the "fight and flight" response of the sympathetic nervous system, which in turn controls physical reactions during hot flashes such as sweating and increased heart rate. (Source - Nu.nl)

Hypnotherapy and hot flashes

Great news and especially when you realize that if you learn self-hypnosis you can control it all yourself. For many women this would be a great solution.

Leave a comment what you think.