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Lifestyle

Online Hypnotherapy Sessions: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Are you considering online hypnotherapy to create positive change while enjoying the comfort of your own home? Virtual sessions are convenient, effective, and more accessible than ever. Here’s exactly what you can expect from booking an online hypnotherapy session—and how to prepare for the best results.

What to Expect from Your Online Hypnotherapy Session

Online hypnotherapy is very similar to in-person sessions, but takes place through secure video calls. Your first session usually begins with a conversation about your goals, followed by a guided relaxation and tailored hypnosis techniques. The hypnotherapist will help you reach a focused, receptive state to address habits, fears, or stress.

Sessions are private, confidential, and designed to help you feel comfortable, safe, and supported throughout the process. Your therapist will check in with you before and after each session to ensure you feel heard and empowered.

How to Prepare for Success

Proper preparation can make your session more immersive and transformative. Here are easy steps to help you get ready:

  • Find a Quiet, Comfortable Space
    Choose a spot at home where you won’t be interrupted. This could be a bedroom, home office, or living room—anywhere that’s free from distractions, pets, or sudden noises. Let anyone you live with know you’ll be unavailable during your session.

Get Comfortable
Wear loose, breathable clothing, have a supportive chair or plenty of cushions, and keep a light blanket nearby. Make sure you can relax without feeling cold or restless.

Prepare Your Tech
Check your internet connection in advance. Use a laptop or tablet plugged into a power source, and test your webcam and microphone for clear communication. Headphones offer a more immersive sound experience but aren’t required.

Adjust Lighting and Environment
Set up in a well-lit room so your therapist can see you easily, but feel free to use dim lights if they help you relax. Have tissues handy for emotional moments and keep water or tea nearby for comfort.

Remove Distractions
Silence your phone, close unnecessary apps, and give yourself five minutes of quiet before the session to settle your mind.

Clarify Your Goals
Take a moment to reflect on and write down what you want to achieve—whether it’s stress relief, breaking a habit, or finding more confidence. If you’re unsure, your hypnotherapist will help you refine your goals during the session.

Backup Plan
In case the connection drops, simply relax and let yourself return from hypnosis naturally; reconnect with your therapist when possible.

Online hypnotherapy is a powerful way to work on personal transformation no matter where you are. With thoughtful preparation, you ensure each session is as focused and effective as possible.

Ready to experience positive change? Book a free consultation and discover how hypnotherapy can help you today.

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Health

Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy in London: A Natural Approach to Digestive Health

Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy in London: A Holistic Approach to Digestive Health

In a city as dynamic and fast-paced as London, stress and lifestyle factors often contribute to digestive discomfort. For individuals experiencing Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), bloating, or other functional gastrointestinal issues, gut-directed hypnotherapy offers a clinically proven, non-invasive solution.

This blog explores the science behind gut-directed hypnotherapy, its benefits, and how it can support both clients and hypnotherapists in London.


What Is Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy?

Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a specialised form of clinical hypnosis that targets the gut-brain axis—the intricate communication system between the digestive tract and the central nervous system.

Originally developed by Professor Peter Whorwell, this therapeutic approach uses guided relaxation, imagery, and suggestion to help the brain regulate how it perceives and responds to gut sensations.

Unlike conventional treatments that only focus on physical symptoms, gut-directed hypnotherapy addresses the psychological, neurological, and emotional factors that influence digestion. It is a holistic, drug-free method that empowers individuals to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.


Who Can Benefit from Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy?

This approach is particularly effective for individuals experiencing:

  • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea
  • Functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as functional dyspepsia
  • Stress-related digestive issues
  • Chronic bloating or indigestion without identifiable medical causes

If you are searching for IBS hypnotherapy in London or exploring natural ways to support your gut health, this therapy may offer meaningful relief.


The Gut-Brain Connection: Scientific Foundations

The gut is often referred to as the body’s “second brain” due to its vast network of neurons and its role in producing neurotransmitters like serotonin.

When stress or anxiety disrupts communication along the gut-brain axis, it can trigger heightened gut sensitivity and irregular bowel patterns. Gut-directed hypnotherapy works by calming the nervous system, reducing gut sensitivity, and restoring balance to digestive processes.


Why London Is Embracing Gut Hypnotherapy

London’s focus on mental wellness and holistic health has created an environment where alternative therapies thrive. With rising awareness of the connection between stress, lifestyle, and digestive health, more Londoners are seeking gut-focused hypnosis as a safe and effective way to manage chronic conditions.


What to Expect During a Gut Hypnotherapy Session

A session with a gut-directed hypnotherapist in London typically includes:

  1. Initial consultation – review of symptoms, medical history, and goals
  2. Guided hypnosis – entering a deeply relaxed state to receive tailored therapeutic suggestions
  3. Personalised scripts and visualisation – designed to calm and regulate the digestive system
  4. Ongoing support – usually 6–12 sessions, often with audio recordings for home practice

Clinical Evidence and Outcomes

Clinical research shows that gut-directed hypnotherapy reduces IBS symptoms in up to 70–80% of patients. It is recognised by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as a valid treatment option when conventional methods prove insufficient.

Reported benefits include:

  • Relief from abdominal pain and bloating
  • Improved bowel regularity
  • Reduced anxiety and stress
  • Enhanced sleep and overall wellbeing

Choosing a Gut Hypnotherapist in London

Selecting a qualified hypnotherapist in London offers distinct advantages:

  • Access to certified professionals experienced in IBS and gut health hypnosis
  • Options for in-person or online sessions
  • A culturally diverse, supportive wellness community
  • Proximity to complementary health services

If you’re looking for a hypnotherapist near you who understands the pressures of urban living, London provides an excellent choice of practitioners.

Why Choose London Hypnotics?

As a specialist provider of gut-directed hypnotherapy in London, London Hypnotics offers:

  • Expert care from Antonios, a certified hypnotherapist with advanced training in GDH
  • A calm, confidential environment designed to support healing and relaxation
  • Flexible scheduling, including evening and online appointments
  • A client-centred approach that integrates mind-body techniques for lasting results

Whether you’re based in Camden, Clapham, Shoreditch, or Kensington, our central location and remote options make it easy to access professional support.

Take the First Step Toward Digestive Relief

If you’re living with IBS or other gut-related challenges, gut-directed hypnotherapy at London Hypnotics offers a safe, effective, and empowering path to better health. With expert guidance from Antonios, you’ll gain the tools to manage your symptoms, reduce stress, and restore balance to your digestive system.

To learn more or book a consultation, visit London Hypnotics or search IBS hypnotherapy London to find us online.


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Health

Can Hypnotherapy help with IBS?

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects millions of people in the UK and around the world, yet many continue to suffer in silence, unsure of what to do next. For some, IBS becomes a constant source of discomfort, anxiety, and disruption to daily life, controlling what they eat, where they go, and even how they feel.

But what if the key to managing IBS wasn’t just in the gut, but also in the mind?

As a hypnotherapist at London Hypnotics, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful the mind–body connection truly is. Clinical research increasingly shows that gut-directed hypnotherapy can significantly reduce IBS symptoms offering a natural, lasting, and side-effect-free solution for those who have tried everything else.


What Is IBS?

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder, meaning there’s no visible damage to the digestive tract, yet symptoms are very real and often debilitating.
Common symptoms include:

  • Abdominal pain and bloating
  • Diarrhoea, constipation, or alternating between both
  • Excessive gas and cramping
  • Fatigue, low mood, and anxiety

IBS is believed to result from a combination of factors, including gut sensitivity, stress, altered gut-brain communication, and imbalances in the gut microbiome.


The Gut–Brain Connection

Your gut and brain are constantly communicating through what’s known as the gut–brain axis, a network of nerves, hormones, and neurotransmitters linking your digestive system to your central nervous system.

When stress or anxiety disrupts this communication, the gut can become overly sensitive, leading to the painful and unpredictable symptoms of IBS.

This is why conventional treatments (like dietary changes or medication) often fall short — they may address symptoms, but not the underlying mind-body communication.


How Can Hypnotherapy Help with IBS?

Gut-directed hypnotherapy uses deep relaxation, guided imagery, and therapeutic suggestion to calm the gut and retrain how the brain perceives digestive sensations.

Through hypnosis, clients learn to:

  • Reduce gut sensitivity and discomfort
  • Calm the stress response that aggravates symptoms
  • Normalise bowel function and motility
  • Restore confidence and control over their body

Research shows that hypnotherapy can lead to long-term symptom relief, with many clients maintaining benefits years after completing therapy.


Scientific Evidence: Hypnotherapy and IBS

Hypnotherapy is one of the most evidence-based psychological treatments for IBS.
Here are a few key findings from major studies:

  • Whorwell et al. (1984) found that gut-focused hypnotherapy improved symptoms in over 70% of IBS patients compared to conventional treatment.
  • The British Society of Gastroenterology (2021) recognises hypnotherapy as an effective intervention for IBS management.
  • A 2016 review in The American Journal of Gastroenterology concluded that hypnotherapy “consistently produces significant improvement in global IBS symptoms.”
  • NHS-supported research at the University of Manchester found that benefits can last up to five years post-treatment.

In short, the science is clear, Hypnotherapy is more than relaxation; it’s a powerful, evidence-based approach to restoring gut health.


What to Expect During IBS Hypnotherapy

At London Hypnotics, sessions are personalised to your experience of IBS. A typical course includes:

  • Initial consultation: Understanding your symptoms, triggers, and goals
  • Guided hypnosis sessions: Using relaxation and imagery to influence gut response
  • Self-hypnosis training: Teaching you to manage symptoms between sessions
  • Lifestyle support: Addressing stress, sleep, and emotional wellbeing

Many clients begin noticing changes within a few sessions, less bloating, fewer flare-ups, and a calmer digestive system overall.


A Holistic Approach to IBS Relief

Hypnotherapy doesn’t just treat IBS symptoms, it helps rebalance the communication between your mind and gut. By addressing both physical and emotional triggers, clients experience not only better digestion but also improvements in mood, confidence, and energy.

It’s about empowering your body to heal through the natural power of the mind.


Take the Next Step

If you’ve been wondering, “Can hypnotherapy help with IBS?” — the answer, supported by science and real-world results, is yes.

📍 Book a consultation with me at London Hypnotics, 364 City Road, London, or visit london-hypnotics.co.uk

References

  1. Whorwell PJ, Prior A, Faragher EB. “Controlled trial of hypnotherapy in the treatment of severe refractory irritable-bowel syndrome.” Lancet. 1984;2(8414):1232–1234.
  2. https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/ibs-irritable-bowel-syndrome-cure-mental-health-b2843167.html?utm_source=snews&utm_medium=referral
  3. Miller V, Carruthers HR, Morris J, Hasan SS, Archbold S, Whorwell PJ. “Hypnotherapy for irritable bowel syndrome: An audit of one thousand adult patients.” Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics. 2015;41(9):844–855.
  4. Ford AC, Lacy BE, Talley NJ. “Irritable bowel syndrome.” New England Journal of Medicine. 2017;376(26):2566–2578.
  5. British Society of Gastroenterology. “Guidelines on the management of irritable bowel syndrome.” 2021.
  6. Peters SL, Muir JG, Gibson PR. “Hypnotherapy in irritable bowel syndrome: A large-scale audit of clinical service provision.” American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2016;111(6):890–899.
Gastrointestinal System
Health, Lifestyle

Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy for SIBO: How to Heal Your Mind-Gut Connection Naturally

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) is a complex and often frustrating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, SIBO can lead to a host of uncomfortable symptoms, including bloating, gas, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and malabsorption of nutrients. While antibiotics and dietary changes are commonly prescribed treatments, many patients find that these approaches only provide temporary relief or fail to address the root cause of the issue. This is where gut-directed hypnotherapy comes in—a powerful, evidence-based tool that can help clear SIBO by addressing the mind-gut connection.

Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) Illustration courtesy of Freepik

Understanding SIBO and the Mind-Gut Connection

SIBO occurs when bacteria that normally reside in the large intestine migrate to the small intestine, where they don’t belong. This overgrowth disrupts digestion, leading to the symptoms mentioned above. While factors like diet, antibiotics, and gut motility issues can contribute to SIBO, emerging research highlights the role of stress and the brain-gut axis in the development and persistence of the condition.

The brain-gut axis is a bidirectional communication system between the central nervous system and the enteric nervous system (the “second brain” in the gut). Stress, anxiety, and trauma can disrupt this communication, leading to changes in gut motility, immune function, and bacterial balance. This is why many people with SIBO also struggle with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), anxiety, and depression.

What is Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy?

Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a specialized form of hypnotherapy designed to address gut-related issues by calming the nervous system and restoring balance to the brain-gut axis. During a session, a trained hypnotherapist guides the patient into a deeply relaxed state and uses visualization, suggestion, and other techniques to promote healing in the gut.

Research has shown that gut-directed hypnotherapy can significantly improve symptoms of IBS, which often overlaps with SIBO. Studies have demonstrated that hypnotherapy can reduce pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements while improving overall quality of life. While less research has specifically focused on SIBO, the principles of gut-directed hypnotherapy make it a promising complementary treatment for this condition.

How Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy Can Help Clear SIBO

  1. Reducing Stress and Calming the Nervous System
    Chronic stress is a major contributor to SIBO, as it can impair gut motility and create an environment where bacteria thrive. Gut-directed hypnotherapy helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the “rest and digest” mode), which counteracts the effects of stress and promotes healthy digestion.
  2. Improving Gut Motility
    One of the key factors in SIBO is impaired motility in the small intestine, which allows bacteria to accumulate. Hypnotherapy can help regulate the migrating motor complex (MMC), the wave-like contractions that clear bacteria from the small intestine between meals. By enhancing the MMC, hypnotherapy can help prevent bacterial overgrowth.
  3. Restoring Balance to the Brain-Gut Axis
    Hypnotherapy works to rewire the brain-gut connection, reducing hypersensitivity in the gut and improving communication between the brain and the digestive system. This can help alleviate symptoms like pain, bloating, and irregular bowel movements.
  4. Addressing Emotional Triggers
    Many people with SIBO have a history of trauma, anxiety, or chronic stress, which can exacerbate gut issues. Hypnotherapy provides a safe space to process and release these emotions, reducing their impact on the gut.
  5. Enhancing the Effectiveness of Other Treatments
    Gut-directed hypnotherapy can be used alongside antibiotics, probiotics, and dietary changes to enhance their effectiveness. By addressing the mind-gut connection, hypnotherapy can help create a more favorable environment for healing.

What to Expect in a Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy Session

During a gut-directed hypnotherapy session, you’ll be guided into a state of deep relaxation. Your therapist may use imagery, such as visualizing a calm, healing light flowing through your digestive system, or suggest positive affirmations to reinforce healthy gut function. Over time, these sessions can help retrain your brain and gut to work together more harmoniously.

Many people begin to notice improvements in their symptoms after just a few sessions, though the number of sessions needed varies depending on the individual. Hypnotherapy is a safe, non-invasive, and drug-free approach that can be tailored to your specific needs.

A Holistic Approach to SIBO Healing

While gut-directed hypnotherapy is not a standalone cure for SIBO, it is a valuable tool in a holistic treatment plan. By addressing the mind-gut connection, hypnotherapy can help break the cycle of stress and dysfunction that perpetuates SIBO. Combined with dietary changes, probiotics, and other therapies, it can support long-term healing and help you regain control of your gut health.

If you’re struggling with SIBO and haven’t found relief through conventional treatments, consider exploring gut-directed hypnotherapy. It may be the missing piece in your journey to healing.


About the Author
Antonios Koletsas is a certified hypnotherapist who specializes in gut-directed hypnotherapy for SIBO, IBS, and other digestive disorders. Passionate about helping clients heal from the inside out, Antonios combines evidence-based techniques with a compassionate, personalized approach to support lasting change. Contact Antonios today to learn more about how hypnotherapy can help you reclaim your gut health by submitting the contact form or calling 020 7101 3284.

References

  1. SIBO Overview
    Ghoshal, U. C., Shukla, R., & Ghoshal, U. (2017). Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth and irritable bowel syndrome: A bridge between functional organic dichotomy. Gut and Liver, 11(2), 196–208. https://doi.org/10.5009/gnl16126
  2. Brain-Gut Axis and Stress
    Mayer, E. A., Tillisch, K., & Gupta, A. (2015). Gut/brain axis and the microbiota. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 125(3), 926–938. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI76304
  3. Hypnotherapy for IBS
    Whorwell, P. J., Prior, A., & Faragher, E. B. (1984). Controlled trial of hypnotherapy in the treatment of severe refractory irritable bowel syndrome. The Lancet, 324(8414), 1232–1234. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(84)92793-4
  4. MMC Dysfunction and SIBO
    Pimentel, M., Soffer, E. E., Chow, E. J., Kong, Y., & Lin, H. C. (2002). Lower frequency of MMC is found in IBS subjects with abnormal lactulose breath test, suggesting bacterial overgrowth. Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 47(12), 2639–2643. https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1021039032413
  5. Stress and Gut Microbiota
    Foster, J. A., Rinaman, L., & Cryan, J. F. (2017). Stress & the gut-brain axis: Regulation by the microbiome. Neurobiology of Stress, 7, 124–136. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ynstr.2017.03.001
  6. Hypnotherapy and Gut Motility
    Simrén, M., Ringström, G., Björnsson, E. S., & Abrahamsson, H. (2004). Treatment with hypnotherapy reduces the sensory and motor component of the gastrocolonic response in irritable bowel syndrome. Psychosomatic Medicine, 66(2), 233–238. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.psy.0000116964.76529.6e
  7. Emotional Triggers and Gut Health
    Bradford, K., Shih, W., Videlock, E. J., Presson, A. P., Mayer, E. A., Chang, L., & Naliboff, B. D. (2012). Association between early adverse life events and irritable bowel syndrome. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 10(4), 385–390. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cgh.2011.12.018
  8. Integrative Approaches to SIBO
    Chey, W. D., Kurlander, J., & Eswaran, S. (2015). Irritable bowel syndrome: A clinical review. JAMA, 313(9), 949–958. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2015.0954
  9. Vagus Nerve and Digestion
    Bonaz, B., Sinniger, V., & Pellissier, S. (2017). The vagus nerve in the neuro-immune axis: Implications in the pathology of the gastrointestinal tract. Frontiers in Immunology, 8, 1452. https://doi.org/10.3389/fimmu.2017.01452
  10. Rome IV Criteria for Functional Gut Disorders
    Drossman, D. A., & Hasler, W. L. (2016). Rome IV—Functional GI disorders: Disorders of gut-brain interaction. Gastroenterology, 150(6), 1257–1261. https://doi.org/10.1053/j.gastro.2016.03.035
IBS FOOD TO AVOID
Health

The top 5 foods to avoid if you have IBS

Living with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) can be challenging, often requiring careful attention to diet and lifestyle choices. As a hypnotherapist specializing in IBS, I understand the importance of identifying trigger foods that can exacerbate symptoms. In this article, we’ll delve into the top five trigger foods to avoid for individuals seeking relief from IBS discomfort.

  1. High-FODMAP Foods: FODMAPs (Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols) are certain types of carbohydrates that are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. These foods can ferment in the gut, leading to gas, bloating, and discomfort, particularly for individuals with IBS. Common high-FODMAP foods include onions, garlic, wheat, and certain fruits (such as apples and pears). While not everyone with IBS is sensitive to all high-FODMAP foods, it’s wise to limit or avoid them, especially during flare-ups.
  2. Dairy Products: Many individuals with IBS find that dairy products worsen their symptoms. This is often due to lactose intolerance, where the body lacks the enzyme lactase needed to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy. Symptoms can include bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Avoiding or reducing consumption of milk, cheese, yogurt, and other dairy products can alleviate symptoms for many IBS sufferers. Opting for lactose-free alternatives or lactase enzyme supplements may also be helpful.
  3. Spicy and High-Fat Foods: Spicy foods and high-fat meals are notorious for triggering IBS symptoms. Spicy foods can irritate the gastrointestinal lining, leading to inflammation and discomfort, while high-fat foods can slow down digestion and exacerbate symptoms like bloating and diarrhea. Common culprits include fried foods, creamy sauces, spicy curries, and certain condiments. Choosing milder spices and opting for lean protein sources, fruits, and vegetables can help minimize symptoms and promote better digestive health.
  4. Beans and Legumes: While beans and legumes are nutritious sources of protein and fiber, they can be problematic for individuals with IBS due to their high FODMAP content. Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and kidney beans are common examples. These foods can cause gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort, especially when consumed in large quantities or for those with heightened sensitivity to FODMAPs. Experimenting with smaller portions or selecting canned varieties that have been rinsed thoroughly can help reduce their FODMAP content and minimize symptoms.
  5. Artificial Sweeteners: Artificial sweeteners, often found in sugar-free gum, candies, diet sodas, and certain packaged foods, can trigger digestive issues in some individuals with IBS. While they provide a low-calorie alternative to sugar, artificial sweeteners like sorbitol, mannitol, and xylitol can be poorly absorbed in the digestive tract, leading to gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Avoiding products containing artificial sweeteners or opting for natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit may help reduce IBS symptoms associated with their consumption.

Identifying and avoiding trigger foods is crucial for managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for individuals with IBS. By steering clear of high-FODMAP foods, dairy products, gluten-containing foods, caffeine, alcohol, spicy dishes, and high-fat meals, and being mindful of artificial sweeteners, individuals can better control their symptoms and enjoy a more comfortable life. As a hypnotherapist specializing in IBS, I emphasize the importance of personalized dietary strategies and holistic approaches to symptom management, including hypnotherapy, to achieve lasting relief and well-being.

Gut-directed hypnotherapy offers a powerful adjunct to dietary modifications in managing IBS symptoms effectively. This specialized form of hypnotherapy focuses on harnessing the mind-gut connection to alleviate gastrointestinal distress and improve overall well-being. Through relaxation techniques, visualization, and suggestion, gut-directed hypnotherapy aims to reduce gut hypersensitivity, modulate gut motility, and mitigate stress-related triggers that can exacerbate symptoms. Research has shown promising results, with many individuals experiencing significant reductions in pain, bloating, and diarrhea after undergoing gut-directed hypnotherapy sessions. By addressing the underlying psychological and physiological factors contributing to IBS, hypnotherapy empowers individuals to regain control over their symptoms and lead a more fulfilling life.

If you are ready to embark on a journey of healing and transformation you can simply fill up the Contact Me form for a complimentary consultation call or just call +44 020 7101 3284

References

  1. Healthline: “Foods to Avoid with IBS”
  2. Temple Health Blog: “These Foods May Be Making Your IBS Worse”
  3. YorkTest Blog: “Which Foods Trigger IBS Flare-Ups?”
  4. WebMD: “IBS Triggers: Prevention Strategies”
  5. Medical News Today: “Irritable bowel syndrome: 9 foods to avoid”
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Health, Wellness

Gut-directed Hypnotherapy. A Promising Way To Increase The Healing Of Your Gut.

What is gut-directed Hypnotherapy after all? What does it mean? This question is not so simple to answer, but I will do my best to help you understand better how it can help you heal your gut and improve your IBS symptoms.

It’s all about the gut and brain connection, that’s the simple answer but what is the gut-brain connection? how does my gut connect with my brain? I thought they were very separate organs that do not communicate directly with each other, you might say. Well, research has shown that your brain and your gut are excellent friends and communicate with each other all the time via the spinal cord and the vagus nerve.

Neural Superhighways: The Spinal Cord and Vagus Nerve

The spinal cord and the vagus nerve emerge as the neural superhighways facilitating the constant dialogue between the gut and brain. The spinal cord serves as a primary conduit for information exchange, allowing signals to travel bi-directionally. Notably, sensory information from the gut, such as feelings of fullness or discomfort, ascends through the spinal cord to reach the brain, providing a real-time status update.

Meanwhile, the vagus nerve, a prominent component of the parasympathetic nervous system, establishes a direct link between the brain and various abdominal organs, including the gut. This cranial nerve orchestrates a symphony of communication, transmitting signals in both directions. Importantly, the vagus nerve plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, from digestion to emotional responses.

And how Hypnotherapy can help me with this?

Let’s have a look!

Unlocking the Healing Potential: Hypnotherapy and the Gut-Brain Harmony

For individuals navigating the intricate dance between the gut and the brain, hypnotherapy emerges as a promising ally on the path to well-being. Beyond its portrayal as a mesmerizing art, hypnotherapy showcases tangible benefits for those seeking to enhance their gut-brain connection and foster overall health.

1. Stress Alleviation: A Soothing Balm for the Gut-Brain Axis

Amid our fast-paced lives, stress often takes center stage, impacting the delicate balance of the gut-brain axis. Hypnotherapy, with its ability to induce a profound state of relaxation, acts as a soothing balm for the nervous system. By reducing stress levels, hypnotherapy may play a pivotal role in restoring equilibrium to the gut-brain connection, alleviating symptoms related to digestive discomfort and promoting a sense of calm.

2. Illuminating the Mind-Body Symphony

Hypnotherapy has the unique ability to illuminate the intricate symphony between mind and body. Through heightened awareness and focused attention, individuals can gain insights into the subtle signals emanating from their gut. This enhanced mind-body connection fosters a conscious and intentional approach to managing gut-related symptoms, empowering individuals to participate actively in their healing journey.

3. Empowering Transformation in Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

For those grappling with functional gastrointestinal disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypnotherapy emerges as a beacon of hope. Clinical evidence suggests that hypnotherapy can bring about positive transformations, offering relief from symptoms such as abdominal pain and bloating. The therapeutic power of hypnosis, possibly influencing the autonomic nervous system, contributes to a reduction in gut hypersensitivity, paving the way for improved gut health.

4. Cultivating Positive Behavioral Changes: A Guiding Light

Hypnotherapy serves as a guiding light for individuals seeking to embark on a journey of positive behavioral change. By addressing underlying psychological factors that may contribute to unhealthy eating habits or lifestyle choices, hypnotherapy empowers individuals to embrace habits conducive to gut health. This approach goes beyond the surface, delving into the subconscious to instill lasting, positive transformations.

5. Nurturing Emotional Resilience: Beyond Symptom Management

Chronic gastrointestinal conditions often take an emotional toll. Hypnotherapy steps in to nurture emotional resilience, providing individuals with tools to manage anxiety, enhance mood, and foster a positive outlook. The emotional support offered by hypnotherapy becomes an integral part of the healing process, transcending mere symptom management.

6. Redefining Pain Perception: A Gateway to Comfort

For those grappling with gut-related pain or discomfort, hypnotherapy offers a unique gateway to redefine pain perception. By influencing the brain’s response to pain signals, hypnotherapy may contribute to a reduction in the intensity of symptoms. This transformative aspect not only eases physical discomfort but also fosters a renewed sense of comfort and well-being.

If you are ready to unlock the healing powers that you hold within, I’d be more than happy to be part of it. To book your free consultation just click here or call 020 7101 3284.

gut-directed hypnotherapy
Health

Gut-Directed Hypnotherapy: A Promising Approach for Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Symptoms of IBS can include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. While there is no cure for IBS, there are a number of treatments available that can help to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Woman suffering from IBS flare.

One promising approach for managing IBS is gut-directed hypnotherapy. Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a type of psychotherapy that involves a trained therapist guiding a person into a focused state of awareness while feeling deeply relaxed. During this state, the therapist uses suggestion, imagery, and relaxation techniques to produce a therapeutic effect.

The goal of gut-directed hypnotherapy is to address the “miscommunication” between the brain and the gut. This miscommunication is believed to play a role in the development of IBS symptoms. By using hypnotherapy to calm the digestive tract and reduce sensitivity to discomfort, gut-directed hypnotherapy can help to improve IBS symptoms.

Studies have shown that gut-directed hypnotherapy can be very effective for managing IBS. In fact, some studies have shown that the therapy can improve IBS symptoms by 70-80%. The effects of gut-directed hypnotherapy are also long-lasting, with many people continuing to experience symptom relief months or even years after completing treatment.

The exact mechanisms of how gut-directed hypnotherapy works are not fully understood, but it is believed to have multiple potential actions on the brain-gut axis. Some of these actions include:

  • Improving motility, or the movement of food through the digestive tract
  • Reducing sensitivity to pain and discomfort
  • Calming the nervous system
  • Changing how the brain perceives and interprets pain signals

Gut-directed hypnotherapy typically involves several sessions over weeks or months. The number of sessions needed will vary depending on the individual’s response to therapy. After completing treatment, some people may choose to have ongoing sessions to maintain results and address or prevent future flare-ups.

Overall, gut-directed hypnotherapy appears to be an effective and long-lasting treatment option for individuals with IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders. If you are considering gut-directed hypnotherapy, it is important to find a qualified therapist who has experience working with people with IBS.

Additional Tips

  • To further enhance the effectiveness of gut-directed hypnotherapy, it is important to combine the therapy with other lifestyle changes, such as following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress.
  • Gut-directed hypnotherapy is generally safe for most people, but there are a few potential side effects, such as anxiety, headache, and drowsiness.
  • If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any serious medical conditions, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting gut-directed hypnotherapy.

Gut-directed hypnotherapy is a promising treatment option for individuals with IBS and other gastrointestinal disorders. If you are struggling with IBS, talk to your doctor about whether gut-directed hypnotherapy may be right for you.

To book your consultation call 020 7101 3284 or click this button.

References

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hypnotherapy/

https://www.monashfodmap.com/blog/how-effective-is-gut-directed/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1773844/

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