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Cheyenne Religion and Spirituality Transitions & Grief Examiner
Transitions & Grief Examiner

Contributions of hypnotherapy -- part 2

June 13, 10:32 AMTransitions & Grief ExaminerMaria Hoaglund
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When ability to focus is lost, music can be useful. If sound/music has been incorporated into the imagery process of the favorite place in nature, that type of music can be played to associate the person to the comfort of their favorite place when they can no longer maintain cognitive focus. Those who are nature lovers may like recordings that combine nature sounds with music. Of the five senses, it has been suggested that the sense of hearing may be maintained the longest. Since the capability to hear is often maintained by persons in coma, hypnotherapists who are specifically trained can sometimes establish a level of communication with persons in a coma.

When a person has learned to access the memory of a favorite place in imagination, this can be a rich source of comfort, tranquility and serenity. Once this resource is established and experienced as pleasant, caregivers and loved ones can suggest or remind the patient to use the resource. It can be particularly helpful at the end of a care-giving or visiting session to make the suggestion, “In a few moments I will be leaving. Would you like to focus on your favorite place in nature for a time?” Or, “Would you like me to turn on music for you before I leave?” Being able to offer an alternative to occupy the mind may ease the pain of parting with a loved one, particularly when the realization is present that this may be the “last time” of being together.
 
A caregiver or loved one can create quality time with a dying/transitioning person by guiding them into a light state of trance, then speaking of favorite memories of the past, reading passages requested from their chosen spiritual tradition, or guided imagery scripts with inspiring and uplifting thoughts for nurturing the soul. Some possibilities could be to suggest to the patient being held in the tender, loving arms of God or the deity of their spiritual tradition; being lulled to sleep with soft, tender phrases of love and compassion; suggestions for going on an imaginary trip to meet loved ones who have gone before; or an adventure in a time machine exploring the infinite creations and galaxies of space.

It is important to understand and keep in mind that suggestions given during a natural state of trance, when the conscious mind is set aside, are more easily accepted as the unconscious mind is open and receptive to imagination and fantasy. This is a wonderful way to relate to a child, who retains a strong inclination toward imagination, as well as an elderly person who may be reverting to a state of dependency in the dying/transition process.
 
There is a wealth of books and cassette tapes available on guided imagery, and guided meditation that is similar to prayer. If family members would like to use some of these ideas but are feeling the press of responsibilities at a time of need which prohibits the leisure of becoming self-taught, you may wish to consult a hypnotherapist for ideas to fit your particular situation. With this large reservoir of resources, along with the hope and comfort of your own spiritual tradition, you can create quality of life in the midst of adversity and grief.
                                                                                                                 -- Darlene Harris, M.A.
 
Blessings of Joy as we honor the new opportunities for Remembering Who We Really Are in these times, Dancing heart~~~

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