What is hypnosis?

Opinions vary on the exact definition of this natural state of mind. There is no legal definition of hypnosis. Webster's dictionary describes it incorrectly as an artificially induced sleep, but it is actually a natural state of mind and induced normally in everyday living much more often than it is induced artificially.

To explain hypnosis, it might be best to explain what hypnosis is not. When a person is hypnotized, they are not asleep or unconscious, they are in a state of sleepy alertness similar to daydreaming. The hypnotized individual is aware of everything that is taking place.

Hypnosis is a very normal, natural state that most of us experience every day. An example of daily hypnosis would be driving a car and realizing that you can't remember the last three or four streets you just passed. Perhaps you drove right by your exit! Another example would be a person watching television. When another member of the family enters and announces that dinner is ready, the person watching television doesn't respond! These are examples of a light hypnotic state. In both cases the conscious part of the mind had been distracted, allowing the subconscious part of the mind to take over.

ALL HYPNOSIS IS SELF-HYPNOSIS, AND THE POWER IS IN THE MIND OF THE PERSON BEING HYPNOTIZED. So, in reality, the hypnotist is more like a guide who facilitates the hypnotic process.

How does hypnosis feel?

Since hypnosis is a natural state of mind, clients are often surprised that they hear every word. Unless one enters a deeper state, or at least a medium state, he or she may not "feel" any different than when relaxing in the favorite easy chair with a good book. One may feel quite mellow, and may feel light (or weightless), or very heavy as if sinking into the chair. If one enters a really deep state, the feeling may be euphoric for some, or almost like being intoxicated without the side effects. In a light state, it is entirely possible for a client to believe that he or she was not hypnotized; so it is important for a Hypnotist to know how to competently handle the pre-induction discussion as well as the discussion after hypnosis.

There are certain abilities which are enhanced during the actual hypnotic process itself: (a) the ability to IMAGINE, (b) the ability to REMEMBER, (c) the CREATIVE abilities, and (d) RESPONSIVENESS TO SUGGESTIONS. Naturally, it is this last ability which creates the appeal of hypnosis to some and the fear of hypnosis to others.

Will I lose consciousness while in hypnosis?

One of the major misconceptions is that the hypnotized person will lose conscious awareness while in hypnosis. In hypnosis the subject does Not lose awareness or fall asleep. The subject is alert and aware of everything at all times and hears everything the hypnotist says. While consciousness is suspended in natural sleep, it is definitely present in hypnosis. A great difference.

Is hypnosis sleep?

Hypnosis is not sleep. In hypnosis, one is awake and alert and hearing everything. The brain waves of a hypnotized person, even in deep hypnosis, are those of one awake and not of one asleep. Studies employing EEG's were done in the 1950's. These researchers sought a physiological connection as defined by EEG criteria between hypnosis and nocturnal sleep. No distinct brain difference has been demonstrated by hypnosis. Their findings established that the EEG of the hypnotized person is indistinguishable from that of a person who is relaxed and alert with eyes closed! Moreover, a deeply sleeping individual will not hear if spoken to. Yet a person that is in hypnosis, though seemingly oblivious will hear and respond to the hypnotist's suggestions.

Hypnosis more closely approximates normal waking consciousness than it does sleep.

When a person is hypnotized a technique is used that will often induce a drowsy relaxed state. This relaxed state is a condition of suggestion not hypnosis. Hypnosis can be easily induced without any suggestion of sleep and the phenomena can be elicited in waking state.

Electrocardiograph and respiratory studies during hypnosis are in a state of inaction and there is little if any response to reflex stimulation. In sleep, consciousness is lost. But in a state of hypnosis, a person is capable of thinking and reasoning.

Will I do crazy things?

Another misconception is hypnotized people do odd or crazy things.If you have witnessed a hypnotism show, you can see how one might leave the performance with that impression. The perception is the hypnotist commands are irresistible. Actually, the stage hypnotist is a skilled entertainer. To put on an entertaining show, the performer must invoke his or her volunteer subject's outrageous behavior.

Is Hypnosis Safe?

Yes, it is safe. It's a natural part of the human experience. Always protected by our unconscious, trance is a part of every day life. We are already proficient in its use. We simply don't recognize it.

Who can be hypnotized?

Just about anyone who chooses and is able to concentrate for the few moments required.

What is it like to be hypnotized?

In experiencing altered states, it should be acknowledged that trance is slightly different for everyone. Most find it extremely pleasant, relaxing; enjoyable, saying they've never felt so agreeably relaxed and comfortable before.

What can hypnosis be used for?

It's impossible to list all the uses of hypnosis. It is very successful with weight control, smoking cessation, discomfort control, stress management, social and physiological problems. It also improves sports performance, learning, and business skills.

Should I use hypnosis as an alternative to seeing my doctor?

NO. It's not an alternative to seeking proper medical care. Hypnosis is complimentary and should be used in partnership with traditional medicine. A Doctor’s training and diagnosis cannot be replaced by a hypnotist. It's important to discuss all problems with your doctor. Then you can combine the healing methods and the hypnotist.

Can I be forced into a trance?

No. It's a state of mind that needs your co-operation. No one goes against his or her unique code of behavior in hypnosis. Many children are exceptionally good at entering trance. But only if they chose. When teenagers are brought for therapy by parents the practitioner has little chance unless he makes a contract with the teenager, I will only work with you if you want to. It must be your own individual choice.

A lot of people say I'm too strong-willed to be hypnotized.

Strength of will plays no part in the process.

What about those people that say I am too intelligent to be hypnotized.

Wrong. The higher the intelligence and imagination, the better.

On TV I see these things where the hypnotist uses a swinging watch or a spiral disc to hypnotize people.

A competent hypnotist needs no magic tricks or spookiness. It's highly unlikely that any swinging watches, flashing lights or gimmicky props will be used.

The qualified hypnotist is a perfectly normal human being just talking you into a pleasant enjoyable trance.

Will I lose control? .

Quite the opposite. The Client is in control of their trance and will only do that which seems right and helpful.

Could I get stuck in Trance?

No, it simply doesn't happen. Many enjoy hypnosis so much that they sometimes are reluctant to return a normal state of awareness. They literally say, oh please let me stay here or don't bring me back, this feels so good. But they will come out of trance as soon as they are ready. Even if they are determined to stay in. The hypnotic state turns into ordinary sleep and they awaken feeling refreshed and relaxed.

Will I be unconscious while I am in hypnosis?

No, no loss of consciousness is involved. In some 90 percent of hypnotic trances one will be perfectly aware of everything around, including sounds, movements, smells, and will be hypersensitive to touch.

I don't want to be in the hypnotist’s power.

Certainly not. Hypnotists cannot force anybody to do anything against their will. You can chose not to comply with any disagreeable suggestion. Many are very much more determined and assertive than in their normal state of being.

What if I reveal secrets?

Hypnosis is not a truth drug. You chose what to reveal. Moreover, you can lie in trance.

Could the Hypnotist take advantage of me in any way?

He or She has no more opportunity to exploit than a hairdresser, doctor, or plumber. However, just as it is important to find a competent Doctor, it is equally important to make sure you contact a good and capable hypnotist.

How would I find a good hypnotist? How are hypnotists trained?

The training the hypnotists receive is varied, depending on the school they attend. Some are trained in direct suggestions; others have a broader selection of techniques. The hypnotists at the Center for Visible Achievements and Guided Imagery Works are all certified by the National Guild of Hypnotists, founded in 1951.