Psychosomatic Aspects of Asthma
In some cases, asthma may have a psychosomatic component, meaning it could be linked to emotional or psychological stress. One indicator of this is if stress or anxiety often precedes severe asthma attacks. Children with asthma often display traits such as high anxiety, low self-confidence, high dependence on others, and emotional suppression. The act of exhaling has deep unconscious significance, as it is associated with self-expression. From crying as infants to speaking and yawning, the exhale serves as a release of emotions, which can impact the smooth muscles of the airways.
How Fear and Anxiety Affect Asthma
Fear or anxiety about the asthma episode itself can be a major psychosomatic trigger. Many sufferers experience the fear of choking, and this fear can be exacerbated by the language used by caregivers, medical professionals, or anxious parents. For example, referring to an asthma episode as an “attack” can increase panic. Instead, fostering a calm, protective environment and offering reassuring suggestions can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and create a sense of control.
How Hypnotherapy Helps
Research shows that emotions like anger, panic, anxiety, and depression can trigger asthma episodes by affecting the respiratory system. Hypnotherapy can help manage these triggers by lowering stress levels. Since the mind is deeply connected to our physical processes, hypnosis works to calm the mind, improve immune function, and ease discomfort. This approach directly impacts the body’s ability to manage asthma. By reducing stress and helping you feel more at ease, hypnosis can help you feel calmer during asthma flare-ups, and over time, it can program your subconscious mind to reduce the frequency and intensity of asthma symptoms, ultimately leading to a life with fewer asthma-related challenges.
Sources
American Lung Association – Asthma & Children Fact Sheet
