“You are getting sleepy… very sleepy…”
The popular representation of hypnosis—on TV, in the movies, and in books—has been the same variation on a theme for a long, long time. The hypnotist, usually menacing, induces someone into a hypnotic state with an undulating pocket watch. (Think of someone like this lady.)
The person being hypnotized is then in such a highly suggestible state that they can be forced to act completely out of character. Or, they may remember that they were Teddy Roosevelt in a past life or suddenly have the ability to speak to dead relatives.
Don’t believe what you see on your favorite TV show. While these fantasies can sometimes contain a kernel of truth, they’re not based in reality.
So what do TV shows get right about hypnosis?
First, the positives.
Hypnosis DOES induce a state of heightened concentration and awareness, such that the person hypnotized can respond to suggestion in a way that might not be possible for them outside of a trance.
And hypnosis DOES allow you to access deeper parts of your psyche… but it’s doubtful this is going to lead to anything supernatural.
A person may also be hypnotized through a variety of techniques that include vocal repetition and visualization exercises meant to induce deep relaxation, similar to the old “You are getting sleepy” mantra we all know so well.
However, the purpose and the outcome of hypnosis is where TV and movies get it so wrong.
No, a hypnotist can’t convince you that you’re a barnyard animal
While hypnosis can open you up to suggestion or advice, it can’t take control of your mind. Your free will remains intact even when in a trance, and you have absolute control over accepting or rejecting a notion posed to you while in that state.
Think of it simply like being in a more receptive frame of mind. You may be more likely to take some good advice. What you won’t do is come out of a session mooing like a cow.
No, hypnosis doesn’t serve a sinister purpose
It’s the exact opposite! While you’re in that more receptive state, your hypnotist or therapist may help you visualize goals or guide you toward healthier choices. Afterward, you may see greater progress toward your objectives thanks to having overcome the roadblocks the mind can create.
For this reason, hypnosis can be used to treat medical conditions (like insomnia or depression), smoking cessation, even weight loss. It can be used to help you achieve personal fulfillment, overcome trauma, or, in the case of the erotic hypnosis I specialize in, bring out your deepest desires.
Hypnosis is not magic; it’s a real therapeutic practice backed by research and effective for countless patients. Plus, hypnosis is a natural state akin to zoning out. A hypnotized individual is NOT under a spell.
No, you won’t forget the whole session
Hypnosis is experienced differently by everyone, so the one-size-fits-all notion that the hypnotist snaps her fingers and the entire session is wiped from the patient’s memory is just flat-out wrong. Many people are, in fact, more sharply aware of their surroundings than usual. Or, even if not fully conscious, they still gain subconscious benefit.
Experience real hypnosis for yourself
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