Frequently Asked Questions about Hypnosis

What is the meaning of hypnosis?

Hypnotism, which is also known as hypnotherapy, is a semi-trance like state of mind in which you have a higher level of focus and concentration. Hypnosis usually takes place with the help of a therapist using repeated spoken words and suggested mental images. This state of increased concentration, with your mind open to suggestions, is part of the process of forming new habits and behavioural patterns.  You may have you found yourself completely involved in an activity which completely captured your focus, so much so that you were unaware of anything else. It could have been in a working environment, watching a movie, reading a book, or even watching TV. You may have been so captivated by what you were doing, that you did not even notice the passing of time, or hear when someone spoke to you.  This is a natural trance state, similar to hypnosis, which you have probably experienced many times before.  Hypnosis is something which occurs naturally, and there is no magic, no trick, no manipulation, and no mind control. It is a process which will allow you to tap into your mind, and help you make positive changes to better your life.

Who can be hypnotized?

Anyone can, but you must be willing to be hypnotised. If you are unwilling, hypnotism cannot be forced on you. There are however some people who, in spite of being willing, may find it difficult to achieve a satisfactory state of hypnotism. This does not mean that there is anything wrong with you, or that you will never be able to experience hypnotism.  If this is you, bear in mind that everyone differs in how open they are to respond to hypnosis. An experienced professional would be able to help you achieve the success you desire.

Will I always be in control of myself?

Hypnosis is a state of mind that requires consent. You will always be in control and able to hear what is being said. You cannot be made to do, or say, anything against your will. And no deep secrets can be unwillingly divulged!

Will I fall asleep?

 You will not be asleep. When you are hypnotized, you will experience feelings of calmness, peace and relaxation. Although your eyes may be closed, you will not be asleep. At no time will you be unaware of your surroundings, or lose any of your conscious awareness. In fact it is likely that you will hear sounds from the next room, or even noise from the traffic outside.

Can hypnotism harm me in any way?

We all experience hypnotism in one way or another, on a daily basis. It could in the form of daydreaming, meditating, or perhaps being engrossed in a task we are doing. There is no documented evidence that hypnotism has ever harmed anyone.

What does it feel to be hypnotized?

The experience of hypnosis is not unusual or strange. Most people report feeling very relaxed or pleasantly lethargic. Many are surprised at how familiar it feels to countless other moments in life, when you may have been lost in thought, meditating, or even daydreaming. There is no magic feeling of bliss, and you will not float away on a cloud of euphoria. This only happens in the movies or on the TV!  Your mind will be alert and open to the suggestions it is receiving. Your focus and concentration will be directly on your experience, as you take in the words you are hearing.

What about those who say it does not work?

The success of the experience depends on 2 things: your willingness to change, and the skills of the hypnotist. If you do not have a real desire to change, or to improve certain areas of your life, then you will not be mentally prepared to accept suggestions for positive change.  In that case, even if you are successfully hypnotised, the chances are that your problems will not be resolved. However, if you have a genuine, deep desire to change, you can look forward to a successful outcome.

How long will it be before I feel some benefits?

The goal of therapeutic hypnotism is to ensure that you get the best possible results. This can depend on the nature of the issues you want to resolve, the length of each therapy session, and the number of sessions you may need.   There is no real rule of thumb way of predicting how long you will require therapy. But the good news is that some folk feel benefits after the very first session.   When you visit a professional hypnotist, a unique program and plan of action will be mapped out for you. This will be actioned to make the best use of your time, and aimed at ensuring a successful, beneficial hypnotism experience.