Essentials: Using Hypnosis to Enhance Mental & Physical Health & Performance | Dr. David Spiegel

In this Huberman Lab Essentials episode, Andrew Huberman interviews Dr. David Spiegel, a leading expert in clinical hypnosis and psychiatry at Stanford, about the science and therapeutic applications of hypnosis for mental and physical health. Spiegel defines hypnosis as a state of highly focused attention, akin to being fully immersed in a movie or sports game, where one experiences rather than evaluates. He contrasts clinical hypnosis with stage hypnosis, emphasizing that hypnosis enhances control over mind and body rather than diminishing it. The discussion delves into the neurobiology of hypnosis, highlighting reduced activity in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (DACC), increased connectivity between the DLPFC and insula, and inverse connectivity between the DLPFC and posterior cingulate cortex—key changes that enable cognitive flexibility, pain modulation, and emotional regulation. Spiegel shares compelling clinical examples, including using hypnosis to reduce gastric acid secretion, treat PTSD, manage chronic pain, improve sleep, and help children endure medical procedures with less anxiety. He also discusses the role of self-hypnosis, the Reverie app, and the importance of hypnotizability, measured via the Spiegel Eye Roll test. The episode concludes with practical guidance on accessing trained clinicians and integrating hypnosis into everyday life for enhanced performance and well-being.