What is hypnosis?
Unlike the television or Hollywood version, hypnosis is simply a state of deep relaxation.
Can anyone be hypnotised?
Yes. In fact, most people experience hypnosis several times a day. Daydreaming is a form of hypnosis. Also, the state experienced directly on entering and leaving sleep is hypnosis.
What does hypnosis feel like?
Because hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness, or awareness, at no time will you be asleep or unaware of what is going on. You will, however, be likely to feel more relaxed than ever before. A feeling of peace, serenity and wellbeing generally accompanies this relaxation.
Can I be made to do something against my will?
No. There is a safeguard in hypnosis. Anything suggested to you in hypnosis that is against your morals, beliefs, religion, ethics, wants or desires will simply be rejected by you. It is impossible for you to be made to do anything against your will.
What about stage shows?
Successful stage hypnosis relies on willing volunteers. Those people have a desire to join in the show and perform. Hypnosis merely helps them to lift inhibitions that they may, ordinarily, have against performing in public.
Will I remember what is said or done, after I come out of hypnosis?
Hypnosis is not an unconscious state, so you will remember what is being said and done. If you have no apparent memory of what is said or done, this is likely to be because you were drifting and daydreaming in your own pleasant thoughts during that part. Generally you will fully remember everything.
Am I giving up control during Hypnosis?
No. You will be in complete control during the entire session. In fact, hypnosis gives you more control. No one can control your mind, except you.
Can only 'weak-minded' people be hypnotised?
On the contrary, while everybody can be hypnotised, those that respond better are people with strong and active minds capable of imagination and mental dexterity. Those that refuse to be hypnotised, generally are exhibiting either a lack of understanding of the subject entirely, or 'weakness' in the form of inflexibility.
Does Hypnosis wear off?
Yes & No. The state of hypnosis being a relaxed 'Day Dream' state leaves you when either you or the therapist ends the session, but the results of your hypnotic session, because changes brought about under hypnosis, i.e. stopping smoking, weight loss, etc., are self-rewarding the effects will become stronger, especially if reinforcement tapes are used.
Are there harmful after effects?
No. There is not one case on record of anyone being harmed because of, or through, hypnosis. After the session, most people feel relaxed and mellow but in complete control of all of their faculties and able to perform any task or duty such as driving or working. Most people experience a very pleasant energy increase after the session.
Why is hypnosis sometimes linked to witchcraft and fortune telling?
The media is mostly responsible for this. There is nothing magical, mystical or mysterious about hypnosis, and we actively disassociate ourselves from those that would have you believe otherwise.
Is hypnosis a magical cure?
No but it is hugely effective in most situations. Hypnosis is not always needed in therapy. There is a mutual partnership between practitioner and client. 100% commitment will be required to achieve the result you want. Things can always get better and you reap more from your life the more you put into it.