Managing "State Anxiety": How hypnosis physiologically shifts the nervous system from "fight or flight" to "rest and digest."

TL;DR: "State anxiety" is the acute stress felt before specific events (like public speaking or medical procedures). Clinical studies confirm that hypnosis is highly effective at lowering physiological stress markers—heart rate, blood pressure, and cortisol—by activating the parasympathetic nervous system.

We live in an era of chronic high alert. Our sympathetic nervous system (the "fight or flight" response) is often stuck in the "on" position. While helpful if you are running from a tiger, it is detrimental when trying to give a presentation, take an exam, or undergo a dental procedure.

This type of acute, situational stress is known as "state anxiety."

The Physiology of Calm: Hypnotherapy is a potent tool for accessing the parasympathetic nervous system—often called the "rest and digest" state. It’s largely impossible to be deeply relaxed and acutely anxious at the same time; they are opposing physiological states.

Clinical reviews of experimental literature have confirmed hypnosis's efficacy in dampening the stress response. By training the mind to access a profound state of calm rapidly, patients can lower their heart rate and cortisol levels before high-pressure events. It’s not just about "thinking positive"; it’s a measurable physiological shift.

I work with many clients in Coffs Harbour on these exact techniques for pre-event stress. More info here: https://www.hypnotherapycoffsharbour.net.au/contact-hdh