From people’s past experiences, the world of hypnosis seems almost magical and mind-altering, you probably remember that TV special from their childhood or someone getting turned into a chicken on holiday, these seem to be the usual options but which one is right…?
What if there’s a third option… Hypnotherapy!
So, what is the difference?
In the simplest terms, performance vs reality. A stage hypnotists aim is to entertain and any suggestions given to willing participants are short term and will not last past the show, chicken or no chicken. Hypnotherapists on the other hand, work with their clients to make long lasting changes to behaviours, habits and beliefs in agreement with the client’s goals. It’s a collaborative exchange where the hypnotherapist supports the change during hypnosis. Any illusion a client has that the therapist does it to them can be quickly re-directed as the client is control.
What is hypnosis?
A highly focused state of attention where the subconscious level of the mind is in a state of hyper-suggestibility, whilst the conscious level of the mind is allowed to relax for a moment. Often mental blocks and barriers can be much simpler to shift and with complete clarity during hypnosis when the subconscious mind is allowed to explore change.
Is hypnosis ‘brain washing’ or ‘mind control’?
If it were I’d be a very rich woman, but no it’s not. As all hypnosis is essentially self-hypnosis you will only do what you want to do. If any suggestions fundamentally go against your goal or your core values, you will simply disregard the suggestion no matter how many times it is repeated. The biggest misconception is that you are not in control. A good hypnotherapist will agree a goal with you before your session to ensure success.
Will I black out?
Hypnosis is a state of heightened awareness. If you were unconscious, you would not be able to respond or follow the hypnotist’s instructions. Your mind may wonder but you are in a conscious state and aware of the session.
You can get stuck in hypnosis?
You’ll be happy to know you cannot get stuck in hypnosis, as you create the hypnosis yourself you will always be able to wake yourself up from it, even if I was to suddenly lose my voice you would naturally wake yourself from hypnosis.
To be hypnotised I must be relaxed?
Hypnosis doesn’t need relaxation in order to take place, some find relaxation easy and others more difficult. Often relaxation and hypnosis do occur together but in a case where movement or talking is required, full relaxation is not essential, after all TV show participants can’t dance around if super relaxed.
If you are curious to find out more book a disocvery call to explore how hypnosis can help you to acheive everything you want.
I look forward to hearing from you
Jodie x