Hypnotherapy Directory reports increase in users searching for sleep problems

In February 2024, Hypnotherapy Directory saw a 67% increase in people searching for sleep problems compared to the same period the previous year. In the last three months of 2024 compared to 2023 (Oct-Dec, 2023 VS 2024), Hypnotherapy Directory also saw a 57% increase in searches for sleep problems. 

With insomnia affecting around one in three people in the UK, research suggests that we might need more sleep during the dark, colder winter months than we do during the summer. With more people searching for how hypnotherapy can help with sleep problems, it could be a sign that more of us are looking for complementary, holistic ways to support better sleep.

Self-hypnosis is one way that those suffering from sleep problems can try hypnotherapy techniques in the comfort of their own home. Hypnotherapy Directory member Jacqueline Carson explains more about this.

Self-hypnosis for sleep

“Self-hypnosis is a gentle yet transformative method that taps into the power of your subconscious to guide your mind and body into a state of relaxation," Jacqueline explains.

"Begin by lying in bed or sitting comfortably. Close your eyes and focus on your breath, slowing it down with each inhale and exhale. Visualise yourself slowly and gently walking down a staircase.  Feel the sensation of going down, drifting and floating. Once relaxed, introduce a post-hypnotic suggestion, such as: ‘As soon as my head touches the pillow, my body will feel heavy, my mind calm, and I will drift effortlessly into deep, restorative sleep.’  Continue to feel sensations of drifting and floating down.

“You can also use metaphor to deepen this practice. Once you have travelled down the stairs, imagine your mind as a clear blue sky, with any lingering worries as clouds slowly drifting away. Or picture yourself as a leaf floating gently down a stream, carried effortlessly by the current.  You can even visualise yourself as an animal such as a hedgehog hibernating for the winter. These vivid images engage your subconscious and quieten the conscious overactive thinking mind, helping you to feel calm and associate sleep with the imagery you create.”

Find out more about how hypnotherapy can help with sleep problems and common sleep disorders.