Hypnosis has been portrayed in countless movies, TV programmes and stage shows as a mysterious and almost magical process, where people are clucking like chickens or revealing their deepest secrets under the power of a swinging pocket watch. Derren Brown appears to make people do extraordinary things just by talking to them.
But how much of this is really true? Can a hypnotherapist simply snap their fingers and all your problems are gone? Can a hypnotherapist make you cluck like a chicken? (Spoiler alert … the answer to these questions is an emphatic “NO”.)
Myth #1: Hypnosis is mind control
Hollywood loves the idea of hypnotists controlling people’s minds and making them do whatever they want. However, in reality, hypnosis is not about control. It is a state of deep relaxation and focused attention that allows people to become more suggestible to positive suggestions. People under hypnosis are still in control of their own actions and cannot be forced to do anything they don’t want to do.
Myth #2: Some people cannot by hypnotised
In reality, everyone is susceptible to hypnosis to some degree. Hypnosis is a natural state of focused attention and deep relaxation that we all experience from time to time, such as when we get lost in a book or daydream. While some people may be more easily hypnotised than others, susceptibility is not a fixed trait. With the right approach and an open mind, anyone can experience the benefits of hypnosis.
Myth #3: Hypnosis can change you instantly
The myth of the instantaneous cure is a persistent one, often perpetuated by media portrayals of hypnosis as a magic trick that can solve any problem in a single session. While hypnosis can be a powerful tool for positive change, it’s important to remember that it’s not a magic bullet. Lasting change often requires multiple sessions, commitment, and effort from both the client and the hypnotherapist.
Think of it like building a new habit. Just as it takes time and practice to solidify a new behaviour, so too does it take time and repeated exposure to positive suggestions to rewire your subconscious mind and create lasting change. The good news is that hypnosis can help you make those changes more effectively by increasing your motivation, focus, and receptivity to positive suggestions.
So, what is hypnosis really?
Hypnosis is a natural state of mind that we all experience from time to time. When you’re daydreaming, watching a movie that completely absorbs you, or even getting lost in a good book, you’re in a hypnotic state. Hypnotherapists use techniques to help people enter this state more deeply and focus their attention on positive suggestions.
What’s the difference between hypnosis and hypnotherapy?
Hypnosis and hypnotherapy, while often mentioned in the same breath, are distinct concepts. Imagine hypnosis as a relaxed state of mind. In this state, your focus narrows, and you become more receptive to suggestion. Hypnotherapy, on the other hand, is the therapeutic application of hypnosis to address specific issues. It’s like using the state of focused attention created by hypnosis as a tool to help you get back in control of yourself.
What problems is hypnotherapy good for?
Hypnotherapy can help in any situation where you appear not to be in full control of your thoughts, feelings or actions. This includes:
- Anxiety and stress
- Sleep problems
- Depression
- Lack of confidence
- Addictions (smoking, vaping, chocolate etc etc)
- Unwanted “bad” habits
- Phobias
How do I find out more?
Check out the rest of my website and contact me. I run my hypnotherapy clinic in Fleet, Hampshire as well as online. I will be happy to have a short chat on the phone and answer any questions you might have.
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