Hypnosis: a state of relaxation and/or a level of concentration that the average individual reaches daily. Self-hypnosis is accomplished most often when an individual is absorbed in a TV program, experiencing repetition (i.e. highway driving), daydreaming, meditating or praying.
Hypnotherapy: a form of guided relaxation using concentration where the ideas expressed (suggestions) are generally experienced more vividly and in direct collaboration with the subconscious mind, which in turn creates a new awareness. Hypnotherapy is a communication process that allows your own inner intelligence to help you make the changes you consciously desire.
Subconscious mind: that 85% of the brain that stores memories and directs your conduct through habits and emotional desires. Through proper use of suggestion during the hypnotic state you can reprogram the subconscious mind to make decisions favorable to your welfare and goals. The subconscious can be your master or your greatest ally in a quest for success and self-improvement.
Can everyone be hypnotized? Yes. Every person has a natural ability to enter into a state of hypnosis; however, people do differ in their degree of susceptibility to hypnosis. Anyone with an open mind, reasonable intelligence and the ability to concentrate can be hypnotized. Research shows that hypnosis is generally a right brain activity involving the process of identifying with impressions or images. Thus, right brain dominant individuals generally undergo hypnosis more quickly and experience deeper levels of trance; however, with the use of varying techniques, left brain dominant individuals can learn to successfully enter and maintain a state of hypnosis. Completely insusceptible people are simply not willing.
Is hypnosis dangerous? No. There has never been a documented case of harm coming to anyone from the therapeutic use of hypnosis. There has never been a documented case of someone unable to come out of a hypnotic state.
Will I lose control or can I be made to do things against my morals or values? No. Hypnosis makes it easier for people to experience suggestions, but it does not force them to have these experiences. Contrary to some depictions in books, movies or on television, people who have been hypnotized do not lose control over their behavior. Beliefs and values continue to stay intact during any period of hypnosis.
What does it feel like to be hypnotized? Hypnosis is a very pleasant feeling of complete physical and mental relaxation. It is similar to the moment between knowing you’re awake and going into the sleep state.
Will I be asleep? While the depth of hypnotic trance will vary with each individual, and will also depend on the type of treatment, it is not the same as sleep. The outward signs can be quite similar, slow gentle breathing, rapid eye movement, even light snoring, but you will always remain aware and in control, able to bring yourself out of trance should you feel the need, or easily respond to the suggestions to end the trance when the session is completed.
What is hypnotherapy used for? Hypnosis can be used effectively for issues with chronic pain; depression; anxiety; fears and phobias; stress; habit disorders; gastro-intestinal disorders; post-surgical recovery; smoking cessation; weight management; insomnia; improving relationships; enhancing motivation, concentration and self-esteem; spiritual connection; performance enhancement (i.e. golf, tennis, public speaking, etc.) and more.
