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…hypnosis can help relieve allergies such as hay fever?

Spring is a blessing for athletes. The warm weather entices us outdoors without the need for multiple layers of clothing. However, while some might enjoy the blossoming trees, shrubs and grass, almost a third of the Swiss population responds with an allergic reaction (hay fever). For allergy sufferers, the outdoors are torture, as is a jog or bike ride. Not to mention what happens when pollen finds its way into the home.

Hypnosis to combat hay fever?

In recent years, hypnosis has been used in the sports sector to overcome anxiety or provide ‘emotional support’ during competitions. It helps athletes to optimally focus on the competition while in ‘race mode’ and subsequently improve their results. Athletes who suffer from allergies can also benefit from this treatment. Hypnosis involves unravelling experiences in the subconscious mind, according to hypnotherapist Hans Reichenbach. He offers hypnotherapy at his practice. “In most cases during a session, the cause of the allergy can be identified and resolved in the subconscious mind.» It's not a physical pain but rather a feeling that is often triggered by an experience during early childhood. This is stored in the subconscious and can lead to reactions later in life, such as ‘hay fever’. When the experience in the subconscious mind is resolved, the allergy disappears.”

 What do I need to do for this to work?

Hypnotherapy doesn’t work for everyone. According to Reichenbach, the success rate is around 95 percent. For around half of clients, one session is enough to resolve the problem. The following conditions are important for a higher chance of success.

1. Desire for change and reduced distress

An allergy can significantly impact our quality of life. Key training sessions have to be rescheduled or even cancelled. Seasonal goals can’t be achieved due to the effects of pollen.

 2. Trust in the hypnosis

Believing in the method leads to a greater chance of healing. This is because you need to be ‘completely under’ in order for the change to be ‘accepted’ by your subconscious mind.

3. Trust in the hypnotist

Trust in the hypnotist is as important as trust in the method. This trust should always be established during the consultation before the session.    

4. Willingness to allow feelings and internal images

In addition to a general willingness, you also need to be prepared to deal with stories and issues from your past. 

As well as allergies, other symptoms such as anxiety, being overweight, addictive behaviour etc. can be treated with hypnosis. 

What other methods exist for tackling hay fever? 

A session with a hypnotherapist is relatively expensive. You'll need to pay several hundred francs without a scientific consensus regarding this form of therapy. You would therefore expect the issue to be completely resolved without any side effects.

Other treatments include medication such as antihistamines, which are available in tablet or spray form. Unlike hypnosis, these only treat the symptoms and need to be taken regularly during the acute phase of the allergy. Competitive athletes should always check medications for any performance-enhancing substances to avoid a doping ban.