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Sleep Disorders
The etymology of hypnosis seems relevant here. 'Hypnos' is the ancient Greek word for sleep and the suffix '-osis' means condition. People in trance states have long been mistaken for sleeping, however it is more like a relaxed focus rather than being unaware of what happening around you.
There are several conditions that come under the umbrella of sleep disorders, although all of them, predictably, disturb sleep and hint at some unresolved issue in the subconscious mind. Some conditions are more serious than others and some can be treated through hypnotherapy. Lets have a brief overview of these disorders
Insomnia can be either acute or chronic. Acute episodes are usually related to a singluar upcoming stressful event such a an exam or job interview. Chronic insomnia is classified as disrupted sleep at least three times per week over a period of three months. There are many potential causes of chronic insomnia; stress, environmental changes, medication side-effects, irregular sleep patterns.
Nightmares are not only disconcerting but also disturb sleep. They mainly occur during Rapid Eye Movement sleep, that is, the state associated with dreaming. Upon waking the individual often has a goo, vivid recollection of the experience. Associated with nightmares are night terrors. This occurs in non-REM sleep and being unable to move while experiencing a sense of dread is symptomatic.
Teeth grinding, also known as Bruxism, can occur while awake as well as while asleep. Causes can range from medication, specifically some anti-depressants, sleep apnoea, along with lifestyle factors such as smoking, drinking, and using recreational stimulants. As with many of the problems treated with hypnotherapy, stress is commonly an underlying factor in people displaying bruxism. Significant, persistant teeth grinding will wear away the teeth, produce jaw pain, head ache, and earache.
Using hypnotherapy we attempt to address the problems behind the lack of sleep. This can include investigating general stress, pain management, anxieties about the future or issues pertaining to past events or self esteem. When we sleep, the subconscious mind takes over, interpreting the day's events and trying to make sense of them. It is wise to pay attention to your behviour during subconscious states as the body can issue warning signs regarding issues we may not be consciously aware of.