Hypnosis FAQ’s, Myths, and Misconceptions
What is hypnosis? Hypnosis can also be referred to as hypnotherapy or hypnotic suggestion. It is a trance-like state in which you have heightened focus, concentration, and inner absorption. When under hypnosis you are usually in a very calm and relaxed state where you concentrate intensely on a specific thought, memory, feeling, or sensation. Under hypnosis, you are more open to suggestions where you can modify behavior, sensations, and emotions.
Do I lose control during hypnosis? No, you never lose control over your thoughts or emotions during hypnosis. Your free will remains intact throughout the process. You can stop the session at any time you feel the need to. Most people believe hypnosis is a form of mind control, but this misconception usually comes from hypnotic used for entertainment purposes. The hypnotherapists cannot make you do something you are not willing to do.
Can I get stuck under hypnosis? No, it is not possible to get stuck under hypnosis. Hypnosis is a very relaxed state and most people remain aware throughout the session. In some cases, people have fallen asleep during the process, but they can wake up as normal. Some people will remember everything from the session, while others remember bits and pieces. People have reported that they felt as though they were in a trance state for hours, and others say it felt like a very short amount of time. It is different for everyone.
Hypnosis only works on weak-minded people: Wrong! If you are open to suggestibility, you are a great candidate for hypnosis. If you can imagine or pretend, you should do well with hypnosis. Most people use their subconscious daily when driving, day-dreaming, or just carrying out daily tasks by memory without even thinking about it. Occasionally, a certain person that likes to analyze situations has a hard time being open to suggestibility, but there are techniques that work well for them as well.
Can you guarantee hypnosis will work for me? No, there is no guarantee that hypnosis will work. But, research has shown great results with the use of hypnosis for many things such as weight loss, smoking cessation, fears/phobias, depression, anxiety, stress, relaxation, self-acceptance, etc. The client has to want to make changes for hypnosis to work for them. The guarantee that I offer is that I will design sessions tailored to meet your needs as a client to help you get the best possible outcome.
What is NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming)? NLP is a collection of information, insights, and mental techniques that can enable you to improve how you think, behave and feel.
Can I hypnotize myself? Yes, there are lots of options for self-hypnosis. You can hire someone to make an mp3 for you to listen to at home, or you can record your own self-hypnosis mp3’s. There are many resources available today for self-hypnosis.
How will I know if hypnosis worked for me? Results differ from one person to another. You may notice changes in a habit you are working on, from smoking less, to accepting yourself more. Some people notice a difference after one session and some people may take up to 6 months to see measurable change.