LETTERS: The Association of Hypnotherapy Practitioners Malaysia (AHPM) would like to respond to a recent article in which a local celebrity claims that she was hypnotized (pukau) and robbed.
Hypnosis is misunderstood by many, but language and poor translation also contribute to negative perceptions. It is incorrect to translate the English word 'hypnosis' as 'pukau'. It is not the same thing. Hypnosis is an evidence-based technique with at least a nominal basis in science.
Pukau is based on superstition and folklore. We support folklore and tradition, but pukau is associated with an intention to harm. The origins of hypnosis are related specifically to healing.
Hypnosis is a natural state of consciousness. Everyone experiences it at least twice a day: a brief time just before you wake up and, also just before you fall asleep. During these moments you feel very relaxed and comfortable; you do not think about your problems (www.webmd.com).
This is alpha consciousness; sometimes referred to as a trance state. The brain's activity, measured by electroencephalogram (EEG), slows to a range of 7 to 14 cycles per second. In contrast, wakeful, or beta consciousness ranges 8 to 32 cycles per second.
Though natural, hypnosis (as an induced state of alpha consciousness) is a unique sensation. You can focus on one thing at a time. Senses are heightened. You feel like you are in two places at the same time (like a waking dream state). You are also open to suggestion; meaning you are receptive to ideas offered by the hypnotist (these ideas are usually established between you and the hypnotist prior to the process).
Hypnotherapy is a process where a trained professional induces a state of trance (hypnotises you); then uses that state of consciousness to facilitate changes one has been incapable of engaging in a conscious state. For example, hypnotherapy helps people gain control over undesired habits and behaviours and is also useful for coping with stressors such as anxiety or pain.
Persons who seek hypnosis for a therapeutic purpose are generally subject to worry and stress that prevent them from attaining restful sleep. Hypnosis slows down thinking, contributing to relaxation and restfulness. And it is in that state that the hypnotherapist delivers suggestions consistent with one's needs and desired changes.
Despite its many benefits, hypnosis remains subject to many unfortunate misconceptions; the worst of which refer to the potential for mind control. That simply cannot happen. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. Meaning 1) no one can be hypnotised against their will; and 2) one cannot be made to do something truly against their own will or moral beliefs.
In hypnosis, you are not asleep; rather you are in a state of heightened sensitivity, in which you retain full control of your faculties (www.mayoclinic.org). In some cases, one responds to hypnotic suggestion and holds what appears to be a normal conversation with eyes wide open. One remains fully aware and capable of remembering everything.
AHPM members are trained professionals, qualified to engage hypnosis as a platform to help clients feel better. All practicing members of AHPM are required to attend a mandatory Code of Ethics class in which they discuss Act 775 – Traditional and Complementary Medicine Act 2016 (Laws of Malaysia), to which they are bound. They are also required to subscribe to professional indemnity insurance, protecting the rights of both the therapist and their clients.
The Malaysian Ministry of Health has recently enhanced mental health awareness. It is also consistent with Malaysian culture to advocate the usefulness of alternative and complementary practices. AHPM is recognised as the governing body for the professional and ethical practice of hypnotherapy. Therefore AHPM is duty-bound to educate the public about the usefulness of hypnosis and hypnotherapy. Education diffuses fears.
Facts about hypnosis:
1. Hypnosis is a natural state of consciousness. Everyone experiences it, whether they know it or not.
2. You are always in control. To end hypnosis, just open your eyes.
3. No one can force you to do things against your will. No hypnotist can make you quack like a duck unless you (at a subconscious level) really want to.
4. You are totally aware before, during and after hypnosis.
5. You cannot be hypnotised if you choose not to be hypnotised.
So, hypnotherapy is a collaborative process between client and hypnotherapist. You are free to stop at any time you choose. All hypnotherapists in Malaysia are bound by AHPM professional code of ethics and hypnotherapy should only be administered by a trained professional. Check their credentials.
Fundamentally, hypnotherapy helps clients fear less and love more. Simple as it seems, it is not easy to attain. Anxieties increase due to fear or uncertainty. Everyone can benefit from being less scared, living a calmer life.
If you see someone experiencing stress or anxiety, reach out to help by referring them to professional help. Hypnosis can calm them. A skilled practitioner can guide them to a much more positive state of well-being.
Association of Hypnotherapy Practitioners Malaysia (AHPM)
Kuala Lumpur
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times