Autogenic Training

What is it?

Autogenic Training is a form of self hypnosis that aims to induce a state of relaxation and wellbeing, and to utilize the body's own healing power. Its originator was Dr Johannes Shultz, a psychiatrist and neurologist, who was strongly influenced by Professor Oscar Vogt, who had dedicated high life to psychosomatic medicine. Shultz developed Vogts theory that patients who practiced simple verbal exercises to induce hypnosis could alleviate many physical and mental ailments.

Dr Shultz went on to develop a series of six Standard Autogenic Formulae - which still form the core of Autogenic Training and Therapy today. A book was published in 1932, and the training of teacher grew from there.

Autogenic Training is taught one to one, or in groups of 6 - 8, over a period of 8 weeks. The aim of the technique is to induce a balance between the two hemispheres of the brain, as well as between the two branches - sympathetic and parasympathetic - of the autonomic nervous system. It aims to give the student the power to induce physical and mental relaxation from within.

Extensive research has been carried out on the technique, and in some areas it is available on the National Health Service. It is said to be effective for a myriad of conditions ranging from high blood pressure to ME, depression and addictions.

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