Anxiety Rx cover logo

Can Hypnosis Help Control Anxiety and Trauma?

56m · Anxiety Rx · 03 Mar 14:30

Hey gang! Welcome to another episode of the AnxietyRX Podcast. In the latest episode of my podcast, I had the delightful opportunity to engage in an enlightening conversation with none other than Dr. David Spiegel, a true virtuoso in the realm of hypnosis.

Dr. Spiegel, a Wilson Professor and Associate Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University School of Medicine, is not only a prolific author and researcher but also the co-founder and chief scientific officer of the innovative self-hypnosis app, Reveri.

He illuminated the ways in which hypnosis can be a powerful ally in managing anxiety and healing from trauma. Together, we explored the fascinating interplay between the mind and the body, and we spoke about the insula – a critical part of our brain that helps us decide where to focus our attention.

Dr. Spiegel recounted an inspiring tale about a patient of his, underscoring the profound importance of feeling empowered in one's own journey toward wellness and self-perception.

We delved into the nature of worry, recognizing its intent to safeguard us, yet acknowledging the detrimental impact of self-criticism.

And here's something truly exciting – the app he’s been developing called Reveri, harnesses the power of hypnosis to tackle various challenges.

It's absolutely captivating to consider how hypnosis can facilitate a deeper connection with our inner selves and enhance our sense of autonomy.

And guess what? My team has added timestamps for you below to scan what topics are covered in this episode and if you want to jump ahead you can!

Dr. David Spiegel has gifted all of you TWO WEEKS FREE of his self-hypnosis app, Reveri. Click the link below to get access:

https://reverihealth.app.link/anxietyrx

Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 3100+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

---------

Timestamps:

The anxiety of growing up with a mentally ill parent (00:01:12) Discussion on the impact of growing up with a mentally ill parent on anxiety development.

Understanding anxiety and bipolar disorder (00:02:03) Personal experiences and fears related to developing bipolar disorder and how it led to anxiety disorder.

Effects of MDMA and hypnosis on anxiety (00:03:36) Discussion on the effects of MDMA and hypnosis on anxiety and brain activity.

Hypnosis and psychedelics in altering self-perception (00:04:33) Exploring the impact of hypnosis and psychedelics on altering self-perception and ego dissolution.

Self-judgment and inner critic (00:06:01) Addressing self-judgment and the role of the posterior cingulate in self-referential thought.

Pendulum swing dissociation and trauma metabolism (00:07:59) Discussing the role of pendulum swing dissociation in trauma metabolism and the importance of safety in therapy.

Creating mental state change and self-hypnosis (00:12:35) Exploring the therapeutic benefits of creating mental state change and the role of self-hypnosis in enhancing control.

Revisiting emotional trauma and changing emotional signature (00:18:39) Discussion on revisiting emotional trauma and changing emotional signatures through brain activity.

The insula and hypnosis (00:19:41) Dr. Spiegel explains the role of the insula in hypnosis and its impact on mind-body connection.

Hypnosis and mind-body control (00:20:32) Dr. Spiegel discusses how hypnosis can change the body's sensations and control mind-body connections.

Reconstructing traumatic events (00:22:55) Dr. Spiegel shares a story of using hypnosis to help a woman reframe a traumatic event and change her perspective.

Self-empowerment and overcoming trauma (00:23:23) Dr. Spiegel discusses how hypnosis can empower individuals to change their perspectives on traumatic experiences.

Overcoming victim mentality (00:26:31) The conversation explores how hypnosis can help individuals overcome victim mentality and regain agency.

Hypnosis and transference (00:32:38) Dr. Spiegel discusses the concept of transference and its relevance in hypnosis therapy.

Creating a safe space in hypnosis (00:33:27) The conversation delves into how hypnosis can create a safe environment to address unresolved grief and change old patterns.

Control and therapeutic context in hypnosis (00:36:22) Dr. Spiegel explains how hypnosis provides a therapeutic context for individuals to face and control their traumatic experiences.

Empowerment through hypnosis (00:38:34) The discussion highlights how hypnosis empowers individuals to change their perspectives and feel better.

The protective ego and worry (00:39:02) Discussion on the protective nature of ego and the difficulty in moving away from worry.

Facing helplessness and guilt (00:40:11) Exploring trauma, guilt, and accepting helplessness as a way to move forward.

Addictive nature of worry (00:41:58) Understanding the addictive nature of worry and its impact on the brain's reward system.

Reverie app and hypnosis effectiveness (00:42:40) Introduction to the Reverie app, its success in helping people quit smoking, and the potential of hypnosis.

Healing through hypnosis and self-parenting (00:46:26) Discussion on healing anxiety by reconnecting the adult and child self through hypnosis and self-parenting.

Transformative experiences with hypnosis (00:47:16) Anecdote about a transformative experience with hypnosis in dealing with past trauma.

Using play and hypnosis for trauma (00:50:49) Exploring the role of play and hypnosis in addressing trauma and reconnecting with the self.

Reverie app programs and impact (00:50:59) Overview of the programs offered by the Reverie app for stress management, focus, sleep, phobias, and more.

Self-hypnosis and guided imagery (00:53:24) Insight into the use of self-hypnosis and guided imagery for personal development and connection.

The episode Can Hypnosis Help Control Anxiety and Trauma? from the podcast Anxiety Rx has a duration of 56:41. It was first published 03 Mar 14:30. The cover art and the content belong to their respective owners.

More episodes from Anxiety Rx

You Don't Have To THINK Everything You FEEL

Hey everyone, Dr. Russ here. This episode of The AnxietyRX Podcast hits a little closer to home than usual. My mom's health is declining, and on top of that, I've been editing my book. Let's just say my brain is fried.

Because of this personal situation, you might notice some bumps in the podcast this week. I apologize in advance, and I truly appreciate your understanding.

That being said, the show must go on! And today's topic is something we can all relate to: emotions. You know, those things we sometimes spend way too much time overthinking?

Here's the thing: what if the key to feeling better wasn't about overanalyzing every single feeling, but actually allowing ourselves to feel them?

There's a power in simply experiencing emotions authentically, without dissecting them to pieces.

This episode is for anyone who's tired of being a prisoner of their own thoughts. We'll explore the science behind emotions, but also the real human experience of feeling them.

Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 3500+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

-------------------------

TIMESTAMPS

Allowing Emotions to Be Felt (00:00:01)

Compulsive Need to Figure Out Emotions (00:01:03)

Curiosity and Compulsive Cognitive Reasoning (00:02:14)

Sensation Without Explanation (00:03:21)

Pendulum Technique (00:04:29)

Alarm Anxiety Cycle (00:05:32)

Acclimatizing to Emotions (00:09:03)

Equating Emotions with Language (00:12:19)

The Manxiety Podcast: One Mistake Your Parents Made That Created Anxiety Within You

Welcome to another episode of The Manxiety Podcast.

This episode's about something close to all our hearts: our kids. We all want them to thrive, but sometimes our good intentions can backfire. You know, like pushing them a little too hard.

Dr. Nima explains how we, as parents, can unknowingly fuel anxiety in our little ones. By working through our own stuff, we can build those strong, secure bonds with our kids and ditch the anxiety.

We also chat about some cool brain science – confirmation bias (seeing what we want to see) and polyvagal theory (how our nervous system works in relationships).

Basically, understanding ourselves is key to raising happy, healthy kiddos.

Want to learn more? Dr. Nima is cooking up a workshop called "Connecting to the Anxious Child". Click here for more details: https://go.drnima.com/6qeuz

Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 3500+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

---------------------------------

TIMESTAMPS

00:53 The Impact of Parenting on Anxiety

01:22 Ego Extension in Parenting

04:02 Creating Secure Attachments

09:03 Breaking the Cycle of Anxiety

14:12 Taking Responsibility as a Parent

19:20 Understanding Confirmation Bias and Self-Perception

20:35 Polyvagal Parenting: Regulating Emotions and Creating Secure Relationships

23:02 The Impact of Childhood Experiences on Parenting

25:58 Preventing Anxiety and Creating Healthy Relationships

31:12 Workshop: Connecting to the Anxious Child

How Can Overcoming Anxiety Help You Become Free?

Guess who's joining me this episode? My amazing friend, Amanda Johnson, an author and CEO of Awaken Village Press, the awesome folks who published my very first book!

We're getting real about anxiety in this one. Amanda opens up about her own experiences and how her anxiety style (spoiler alert, it's the "worried I'll lose everyone" kind) has impacted her life.

Plus, we'll be chatting about that fear of never finishing things – you know, the struggle that keeps us all hitting snooze on those projects, right?

So, if you've ever felt overwhelmed by anxiety, this episode is for you!

Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 3500+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

-------------------------

TIMESTAMPS

Exploring anxieties and coping strategies (00:01:10)

Attachment styles and fear of loss (00:02:09)

Understanding non-attachment and freedom (00:11:11)

Sensation without explanation (00:14:00)

Handling discomfort and uncertainty (00:17:26)

Love and Childhood (00:19:15)

Energetic Shift and Attraction (00:19:58)

Parental Love and Perception (00:21:12)

Anxiety and Expectations (00:24:50)

Separation Anxiety and Gender Dynamics (00:25:59)

Expectations and Vulnerability (00:28:05)

Fear of Being Seen (00:29:36)

Desires and Expectations (00:32:02)

Alarm Anxiety Cycle (00:35:46)

The waiting game (00:37:35)

Embracing emotions (00:38:30)

The journey to freedom (00:41:06)

Understanding anxiety and fear (00:44:09)

Patterns and self-awareness (00:49:21)

Healing and relationships (00:47:31)

The Most Effective Way to Address the Root Cause of Anxiety

Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? You're not alone. In this podcast, we'll be diving deep into what makes anxiety tick, but ditch the stuffy lectures.

We'll chat about how stuff from our childhood can show up in our grown-up worries, and how our bodies can get stuck in a bit of an alarm state.

But hey, there's good news! We'll explore ways to connect with that inner part of us that feels scared (think inner child) and learn to deal with those uncomfortable feelings head-on.

No more just trying to white-knuckle our way through – we'll be talking about healing that deep-seated anxiety, not just covering it up.

So, if you're ready to ditch the anxiety and find some peace, come hang out with me!

Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 3300+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

-------------------------

Recognizing Anxiety in Childhood (00:00:01)

Neurological Reward System of Worry (00:01:11)

Shame and Alarm in Childhood (00:03:27)

Connecting with the Wounded Child (00:06:03)

Anxiety as a Separation (00:09:11)

Background Alarm and Coping Strategies (00:11:17)

Acclimatizing to Alarm (00:17:32)

Healing through Integration (00:20:37)

Processing the Alarm (00:21:51)

Metabolizing the Alarm (00:23:13)

How Can Movement Help Heal Trauma and Anxiety?

Welcome to another episode of the Anxiety RX podcast!

Today, I'm joined by Erica Hornthal, a dance movement psychotherapist, author of Body Aware and the creator of the Movement Therapy Deck.

In our conversation, Erica explores the important connection between movement and mental health. She shares insights into how even the smallest movements can help us break free from anxiety and trauma, emphasizing the importance of meeting our bodies where they are.

We delve into the role of movement in trauma recovery and self-discovery, discussing the power of movement rituals to support our well-being.

Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety or looking to deepen your mind-body connection, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for incorporating movement into your life.

Thank you for listening and you can find me on IG: @theanxietymd if you have any questions.

PS. If you would like to join the MBRX family of 3100+ anxiety WARRIORS who are shifting from coping with their anxiety to actually HEALING it, click the link below: https://www.theanxietymd.com/MBRX

-------------------------

TIMESTAMPS

Breaking the anxiety cycle (00:01:43)

Interrupting the freeze response (00:04:06)

Establishing a secure connection to the body (00:10:34)

Primitive rhythms and body regulation (00:11:33)

Healing trauma through mind-body connection (00:14:14)

Movement precedes cognition (00:15:12)

The body as the answer (00:17:47)

Society's focus on the mind (00:19:42)

The mind-body connection (00:20:12)

Trauma and dissociation (00:21:44)

Escaping into the mind (00:22:54)

Regulating emotions through movement (00:24:52)

Disrupting trauma patterns (00:26:08)

Re-patterning movement habits (00:28:11)

Introspection and emotional alarm (00:30:07)

Nonverbal communication and trauma (00:32:59)

Healing beyond cognition (00:34:32)

Feeling into emotions (00:38:11)

Expanding movement repertoire (00:39:52)

The importance of expanding movement range (00:40:41)

Developing movement patterns for resilience (00:41:45)

Conscious movement and re-patterning (00:42:15)

Mindful movement and exploring the body (00:44:02)

Facing discomfort and expanding the window of tolerance (00:46:42)

Utilizing movement to process trauma (00:47:39)

Meeting anxiety through movement (00:55:34)

Tangible ways to address anxiety and fears (00:58:13)

Every Podcast » Anxiety Rx » Can Hypnosis Help Control Anxiety and Trauma?