There are many misconceptions surrounding hypnosis, which I think is a shame because it is a very powerful therapy when guided by a qualified hypnotherapist. I have been asked all of the questions below and some more, which I will answer in another blog. I can understand why, because the media and stage shows have given people the impression it is something mystical. Before I knew about hypnotherapy, I was convinced I couldn’t be hypnotised because I found it hard to switch off. I was proven wrong during my first hypnotherapy session, which was so effective, I overcame my fear of being in front of a classroom of people. Which is a whole other blog for another day. So on with the show…
I don't think I can be hypnotised! How will I be hypnotised?
'All hypnosis is self-hypnosis.' Anyone who wants to be hypnotised can be. The opposite is also true - if you don't want to be hypnotised, you won't be. Hypnosis is a state of mind and having an open mind about hypnotherapy and how it can help you is essential. There are different ways of going into a trance. One thing is for sure; I don't use a swinging watch. I guide you into a trance state by using a body scan, asking you to concentrate on your breathing, focusing on eye relaxation or opening and closing your eyes. Everyone is different, and I work with you, tailoring each session to your needs.
Are hypnotherapy and hypnosis mind control
Stage hypnosis has given hypnosis and hypnotherapy a bad name - I'm sure we can all think of a show where we have seen someone clucking like a chicken or forgetting their name.
The people on stage have been selected because they are happy to be on stage. They are extroverts by nature. They wouldn't take the risk of having an introvert - like 'me.' I have been hypnotised lots of times, but there is not a chance on earth anyone could get me to cluck like a chicken on stage. It goes against the core of who I am. The person on stage has full control while on stage in a trance, and they could choose not to cluck while they are under hypnosis or bring themselves out of the trance if they wanted to.
Hypnotherapy is therapy in a trance state. You are always in control. Should you wish to do so, you can open your eyes and stop the therapy at any point.
It is not possible to suggest something to a client which is against their core values, beliefs or misaligned with their desired outcome.
Will I be asleep or unconscious?
Hypnosis is a state of mind. It is a heightened state of awareness. Where positive suggestions are given to facilitate subconscious changes, the changes that occur are unique and individual.
Trance is a natural state of mind that we enter many times a day.
Imagine watching your favourite television programme and being immersed in it. You are still aware of the noises around you, but your attention is on the programme. Hypnosis is similar to this, but you are focused on the voice of the therapist.
In a light state of hypnosis, you may feel similar to when you are listening to a guided relaxation.
Hypnosis can make time feel different, and it can feel like you have been in hypnosis for 10 minutes when it's actually been 30 minutes. This can feel like sleep, while you are fully aware throughout and can recall some or all of the suggestions.
For the majority of people, hypnosis feels like a daydreaming state. I have always likened it to the feeling between sleep and waking when you are aware of noises going on around, but you don't feel like opening your eyes to see what's going on.
Can I get stuck in hypnosis?
No one has ever been stuck in hypnosis. A trance state is a naturally occurring state that you enter many times a day.
· Driving a car
· Watching television
· Reading a book
· Walking
If I stopped talking for an extended period, you would emerge from the trance in their own time, probably within a few minutes, and you would be back to an alert state.
If you are practising self-hypnosis night or are particularly tired, you may fall asleep and wake up when you have had enough sleep.
At any time during hypnosis, you can open your eyes and emerge from the trance state.
Will I tell you something I don't want you to know when I'm hypnotised?
The short answer is no; you won't tell me your deepest secrets.
The trust and rapport built up between you and me will allow you to feel safe to voice your feelings and thoughts. At no point during the session will you be asked to divulge anything you don't wish to.
There is no mind control with hypnosis, you are in full control, and your subconscious will not reveal any secrets. If you don’t want me to know something, you won’t tell me, even when you are in a trance.
If you have any other questions surrounding the myths and misconception of hypnosis and hypnotherapy or you would like to discuss having hypnotherapy with me, please contact me. I have appointments available at Blackstone Therapy Room, Blackawton
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