Brain Science of Hypnosis

Distinct changes do take place in the brain according to scientific research.

"Hypnosis was the first Western form of psychotherapy, but little is known about how it actually works, the authors say."

The article then looks at the the three major changes within brain functioning when undergoing hypnosis.

Looking at the Dorsal Anterior Cingulate which shows a reduction in activity. Also identified was an increase in connections between the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex and the Insula.  Finally there was a decrease in connections between the Prefrontal Cortex and the brain's default mode network.

When these three specific changes are looked at together they match well known outer effects caused by hypnosis.

"Already, hypnosis has been proven to help people quit smoking or cope with pain and stress, the authors noted." It was also noted within the article that this study provides "important evidence" that could help convince sceptical patients of hypnosis' to make more informed choices.

See more on this here:

http://www.health.com/news/what-happens-when-youre-hypnotized