What is hypnosis? Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention and usually a state of deep relaxation. Hypnosis is often misunderstood, often due to how it is portrayed in movies and television and in stage hypnosis.
Many people believe hypnosis involves being unconscious, asleep or losing control. The reality is that hypnosis is a calm, natural and cooperative process where you remain awake and in control. In this article we will explain what hypnosis is, how it works and what you can expect from it.
What is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a state where your mind becomes focused and receptive, and your body relaxes. In hypnosis there is a shift in your awareness, similar to daydreaming or meditation, where your attention turns inward.
We use the word trance to describe such a state, but this is a perfectly natural state we can all achieve when we allow ourselves to relax.
Being in a trance is not weird or spooky or unnatural, it is something naturally experience from time to time, such as when absorbed in a compelling movie or book or while driving a familiar route, similar to being on “auto-pilot.”
In this trance state your attention is directed inward, you may relax well and you are likely to respond well to positive suggestions. Hypnosis is not something that is done to you, it is something you choose to actively engage in.
How Does Hypnosis Work?
Hypnosis works by guiding you into a relaxed, focused mental state where your mind becomes quieter and more receptive. When this happens, it can help you to open your mind to new ways of thinking and reacting, making it easier to change habits, behaviors and emotional reactions.
This process of hypnosis usually begins with calming and relaxing the body, slowing down breathing and focusing the attention. When you let yourself be guided into this relaxed focused state, it becomes easier to change automatic reactions and create more helpful patterns.
Find out More
To find out more about hypnosis and how it works, here are some articles that may be of interest:
- What is the subconscious mind?
- What are Hypnotic Suggestions?
- The Conscious Critical Faculty
- Hypnosis FAQs
What Does Hypnosis Feel Like?
The experience of hypnosis varies from person to person, but it is usually described as a pleasant and deeply relaxing experience. Most people remain aware and in control throughout, but with practice they may drift off a little and have to consciously bring their attention back to the process. This is all perfectly normal. You can read more about this in my article on what hypnosis feels like.
Is Hypnosis Safe?
When used appropriately hypnosis is safe. It is a natural, relaxing technique where you remain aware and in control and you cannot be made to do anything against your will. You can choose to stop at any time simply by disengaging from the process. Hypnosis should never be used when driving or doing anything that requires your full attention. To find out more, read my article Is Hypnosis Safe?
What Can Hypnosis Help With?
Hypnosis is often used for stress and anxiety issues including sleep, panic attacks, insomnia and phobias. It can also help with confidence and self-esteem, habits and addictions and coping with life changes such as relationship challenges. Hypnosis works for a lot of issues because it helps to support change in the way you think and feel.
Final Thoughts
Hypnosis is a natural simple way of relaxing and allowing the mind to be more receptive. Focusing your attention and relaxing like this can help you to make positive changes in your life.
While sometimes hypnosis is misunderstood, it really is a state of calm awareness that is experienced in everyday life. Using this trance state for positive change is a way of training your mind to let go of old reactions that may no longer serve you well and support your conscious desire for improvement.
If you are curious and would like to try hypnosis for yourself, you are welcome to try my free guided hypnosis session and discover how it feels for you.
FAQs
Can anyone be hypnotized?
Most people can experience hypnosis if they are want to and are willing to relax and follow the guidance. Some people may find it easier than others, but with practice most people can learn to enter a relaxed and focused state.
Are you in control during hypnosis?
Yes, you remain aware and in control during hypnosis. Hypnosis is a cooperative process, you cannot be made to do anything against your will. You can also choose to stop at any time you want.
Is hypnosis the same as sleep?
No, hypnosis is not the same as sleep. Although you may certainly feel deeply relaxed, you are usually still aware of what is happening and can hear the guidance throughout the session.
At times you might find your mind drift a little and that you miss some of the content. This is perfectly normal, because the experience can vary, you may notice something new each time you listen.
Rachael Eccles is an Advanced Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist with over 20 years of experience. She is fully licensed and registered with the GHR GHSC and CNHC.
Rachael specializes in weight loss hypnosis, anxiety reduction, habit change, phobias and confidence hypnosis. She has created one of the world's largest catalogues of hypnosis downloads and meditation audios (over 700).
Rachael has been featured as an expert on hypnosis and behavioral change on BBC radio, Hello Magazine, Thrillist and many more. Her approach combines clinical hypnotherapy, mindfulness and NLP principles to help create lasting powerful change. Go to the Shop