The Truth About Hypnosis
Frequently Asked Questions
Hypnosis doesn’t feel like anything unusual- it is a natural state of focused awareness. In fact, you have most likely experienced hypnosis many times in your life without knowing it! For example: when driving a familiar route and you arrive at your destination without consciously remembering the details of the journey. Or, when you get so engrossed in a book or movie that you forget your surroundings- the main character's success or failure feels like your own- because you are in a hypnotic state. We can intentionally use this hypnotic state of focused awareness to bypass the "critical factor" in the mind and access information from the past, thus bringing about the possibility for healing and the discovery new helpful insights.
Just about everyone can be hypnotized. In fact, mostly everyone already has been. Hypnosis is really a normal and frequent state of mind- the result of being highly focused and open-minded. We experience spontaneous states of hypnosis while daydreaming or driving (highway hypnosis). And thanks to newly advanced hypnotic techniques and understanding in the field, the success rate of professional hypnotism is only rising. All that's needed is for you to follow some simple instructions. And as long as you have average intelligence and are willing to engage, you'll naturally enter a level of hypnosis where real, effective change can take place.
Yes! Professional hypnosis is safe, especially when conducted by a certified practitioner. This consensus is supported by several major medical and psychological organizations, including the American Medical Association (AMA). In fact, in 1958, the AMA officially recognized hypnosis as a valid medical procedure, acknowledging its potential benefits in treating various conditions.
A professional hypnotist guides you into the hypnotic state with a few techniques: relaxation, visualization, and direct suggestion. Hypnotists use a variety of techniques- called hypnotic inductions- to help you reach deep levels of hypnosis with ease. Just by following instructions, trusting your hypnotist and wanting to enter hypnosis, the process is a breeze.
No, you won't be unconscious or unaware during hypnosis. You'll hear everything the hypnotist says and you’ll remember too. That's important- because the change comes from the insights that happen within you during the session. during the sessions.
Hypnosis isn’t sleep- though your hypnotist might use the word "sleep" as a quick way to guide you into a deeply relaxed state. It doesn't mean actual sleep. In fact, if you do fall asleep, the hypnotist will need to gently wake you and restart the process. So stay relaxed, but awake, and simply follow along with the instructions.
No one has ever been stuck in hypnosis. It is an easy and effective method where the client is aware and in control the whole time. It is just like listening to an interactive, guided meditation.
A hypnotist can't make you do anything you don't agree with. You remain in control at all times. If a suggestion conflicts with your values, you'll naturally emerge from hypnosis. And if it's just not a suggestion you want, your mind will simply ignore it. Although, your hypnotist will understand your problem from the consultation call, and will tailor all hypnotic suggestions to you and the change you want to make.
Hypnosis works – even when everything else has failed!
Even if you’ve tried other things to resolve your issue, hypnosis can still work because it works differently – it taps into the power of the subconscious mind where all of your memories and emotions are stored.
Hypnosis is a normal and natural state of mind.
You’ve likely been in a state of hypnosis hundreds of times in your life. Everyday states of hypnosis include: listening to great music, reading a good book, and watching a good movie. A light state of hypnosis is achieved any time you lose track of time.
You are always in control during Hypnosis.
Your hypnotist has no control over you. Hypnosis stage shows where people do crazy things are for entertainment! That is not what happens during a hypnotherapy session. Your hypnotist serves as a guide, or coach, its a consensual state. Your hypnotist will work with you to understand your needs and goals. This will be an important part of the hypnosis process and the basis for the suggestions that will be given to you while in hypnosis.
You will be conscious and alert the whole time in Hypnosis.
We want you to remember all the insight you gain from the hypnosis session, so unless you’re using hypnosis for medical purposes including surgery, you’ll be conscious and alert the whole time.
Hypnosis works below the level of conscious thinking.
This means you become aware of things that you have not been aware of before – leading to powerful insight!
Hypnosis works for nearly every issue.
Hypnosis can help you change habits, reduce sensation of pain, increase motivation, help you heal from past experiences, eliminate fear, and help with spiritual growth – plus many other common everyday issues.
Hypnosis works really fast.
Just as our brain can quickly learn a phobia (which is a learned fear) our brain can also learn a new response to an old situation very quickly. The brain is lightning fast and can change using neuroplasticity.
Hypnosis is a state of mind- not a feeling.
Hypnosis is not a feeling – its a state of mind. Some people feel light, like they’re floating; some feel grounded and safe like a tree. Others feel nothing at all, or a light buzzing feeling. They’re all correct – and it’s different for every person.
Hypnosis is not sleep, nor is it relaxation.
Hypnosis is a focused awareness where you are highly receptive to positive suggestion. It is not sleep, nor relaxation. We often have you focus on relaxation in the hypnosis office to help you comfortably focus. Yet there will be many times where you feel excited, or filled with lots of energy.
Hypnosis is very powerful and helps you be your best self.
Hypnosis helps you tap into your best self- you inherent power. Practice self hypnosis daily to increase focus, concentration and the ability to relax and recharge quickly.
Everyone can be hypnotized!
Anyone who is able and willing to follow instructions can be hypnotized. You cannot be hypnotized against your will because hypnosis is a consensual state. It works best when you really want to make changes in your life but are having a hard time doing so or or having difficulty following through.
