The History Of Hypnosis Revealed
Cliff Mee
When it comes to exploring the history of hypnotism, you will
find both scientific and unscientific pit stops throughout
time. There is also an artistic aspect that warrants attention
regarding the subject. As you study the records associated with
this unique mental journey, an assortment of characters
illustrate the power that hypnosis has possessed throughout the
years.
To truly appreciate the longevity of hypnosis, it is vital to
take a look at its use throughout ancient civilizations. While
there is evidence showcasing the use of hypnosis rituals during
pre-historic times, you may find one of the first intriguing
visual accounts through hieroglyphics decorating the early 3000
BC tombs of ancient Egyptians. It is believed that hypnotism was
utilized within various “sleep temples,” which had connections
to healing or religion.
Throughout ancient history, a wide range of ancient proof
surrounds the fact that hypnotism was understood and practiced
during numerous medicinal practices and rituals. Celtic druids
to ancient Greeks to Chinese religious leaders have all shown a
respect for hypnotism, as the accomplishment was also prevalent
throughout Africa, Persia and South America. It is even thought
that details regarding the practice of hypnosis can be found
throughout the pages of the Jewish Scriptures and the Hindu
Vedas.
Surrounded by spiritualism, magic and divine power, hypnotism
was met with plenty of opposition for those who questioned this
mysterious practice and technique. During the early years,
hypnosis was a popular exercise associated with shamans, witch
doctors, as well as high priests. With each passing year, there
have been thousands of influences upon hypnosis, as scientific,
as well as unscientific approaches contributed to the
advancement of this captivating entity.
Hypnosis in the 1700s
During the 1700s, one of the most well known figures in
hypnosis history is an Austrian by the name of Franz Anton
Mesmer (1734-1815). Throughout the 18th century, he led the way
in the usage of trace, which earned him the nickname, “Father of
Hypnosis.” It is also through his name that we find the term,
“mesmerism.”
At the urging of Mozart, Mesmer purchased a space where he
could perform magical “cures” on people. While many praised his
healing powers, which were often accompanied with lights and
other gimmicks, there were others who dismissed his results as
a figment of the imagination. One notable critic was none other
than Benjamin Franklin.
Hypnosis During the 1800s
In France, one of the first scientific explorations regarding
hypnosis took place with the help of Abbe Castodi de Faria. He
investigated the ins and outs of the practice as it related to
trances and willing participants. Faria is also credited with
establishing what is known as the “fixed-gaze method,” which
became a rage throughout stage hypnotism shows.
Also during this time, without the effort of John Elliotson of
England, the use of magnetism and hypnosis may have never found
its way in easing the pain of surgery. As for the concept of
autosuggestion, the thoughts and teachings of Emile Coue
brought this to the public. Coue contended that all hypnosis
was influenced by self-hypnotic techniques.
But during the 1800s, it was the work of Dr. James Braid that
really catapulted hypnosis. Through his studies,
suggestibility, as it related to trance, was thought to be an
individual occurrence. Using vocal suggestion, he was able to
explore the influence that hypnotists had on their subjects.
Braid is also honored for discovering “waking hypnosis.”
Entering the 20th Century
The history of hypnotism travels throughout a vast record in
time. It was used to treat trauma victims during both World
Wars. Dentists utilized its power as hypnotic-anesthesia. In
1955, the British Medical Association began to consider
hypnotherapy as a legitimate medical treatment. Three years
later, the American Medical Association (AMA) agreed. Following
these acknowledgements throughout the medical world, a host of
professional associations for hypnotists started to pop up
across the globe. To date, the National Guild of Hypnotists is
still the oldest and largest of its kind.
During the 20th century, many researchers, doctors and other
medical figures began to take interest in learning more about
hypnosis. Important strides on the subject were then made by
the likes of John Kappas, Ormond McGill, Milton Erickson and
Dave Elman.
To explore the history of hypnosis, one will encounter a wealth
of personalities who have shaped the way people viewed and
accepted the field. Well-known characters, such as Wolfgang
Amadeus Mozart, Thomas Edison, Winston S. Churchill and Albert
Einstein have also shown interest in hypnosis or self-hypnosis.
About The Author: Clifford Mee is an author, hypnotist and
wilderness explorer. You Can Learn Hypnosis with his Hypnosis
Training & Hypnosis Cds at
http://www.conversational-hypnosis.com
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