What Is Hypnosis Like?
Hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness in which one becomes more reactive to positive encouraging suggestions. Usually these hypnotic commands focus the person on a positive change. This may be to lose weight, quit smoking, sleep more soundly or develop a skill.
It is worth mentioning though that in a state of hypnosis you can’t be made to do deeds that you do not wish to do. During hypnosis you are still alert and while you are very relaxed you are entirely conscious of what is going on. In the next passage you will learn even more about hypnosis and it’s history.
A Brief Past of Hypnosis
The past of hypnosis is a long and fascinating one. Numerous styles of hypnosis are believed to have been performed as long ago as the period of the Egyptian empire. Back then it was utilized mainly for pain relief, and to this day it is becoming quite common for people to be put under hypnosis before surgery.
The term hypnosis originates from the Greek word “hypnos” – which means sleep. It was UK physician James Braid who invented the term hypnosis yet years later he came to recognize that hypnosis was not another type of sleep, but by then the term had become too popular to change.
The 1950′s is considered to be the most important period of time in the acceptance of hypnosis as the Pope of the time and individually the British and American Medical Association announced their public approval to the discipline of hypnosis.
Hypnosis has gained a bolstered profile in recent years due to the various scientific research into the practice, of which the majority have revealed extremely positive results. It is now also more available than ever due to the web and the large number of hypnotherapists who sell hypnosis mp3s on their sites at low prices.
What Are The Dangers of Hypnosis?
The only circumstances in which hypnotherapy is dangerous is if you listen to a tape while driving or operating heavy equipment, or an unqualified hypnotherapist attempts to use their version of hypnotherapy to help someone with emotional issues. Keep away from these hazards and then you will be entirely safe with hypnosis either if it’s on your own or with a qualified hypnotherapist.
Some individuals worry that when they’re under hypnosis they may not be able to leave the state. However under hypnosis you are not actually asleep or unconscious in the first place. Similarly some think that they will be under the hypnotists control but again this is not true. When you are hypnotized you are still entirely aware of what is happening around you and what you are doing - you cannot be made to do something you don’t want to do.
Hypnotherapists have a job to do, and that’s what you ask of them. Even if they could put you in danger (which isn’t possible) it would make no sense for them to do so. A hypnotist with a bad reputation isn’t going to have a job for very long.
Remember that hypnosis is an incredibly powerful tool for positive personal change. Many individuals first attempt self hypnosis because it allows them to dictate everything that is happening without anxiety or fear. They then appreciate that hypnosis is a totally harmless practice and become more likely to visit a hypnotherapist or listen to recorded hypnotherapy sessions.
A Self Hypnosis Technique
Here is a simple induction that makes for a great introduction to self hypnosis. Experience it right now and you’ll have a strong feel for what it’s like to be in a hypnotic trance.
Find a place where you will not be disturbed for roughly 20 minutes and become comfortable. You could be sat or laid back. Shut your eyes and take slow, steady breathes. Inhale through your nostrils and exhale through your mouth.
When you begin to feel calm and peaceful imagine yourself at the top of a flight of stairs. Aim to visualize the set of stairs in as much detail as possible. Start to step slowly down the stairs, and with each step you can sense yourself becoming more and more relaxed.
At the foot of the steps is a door. When you reach the door you open it and on the other side of the door is whatever place soothes you most. It might be the seaside, a quiet café, the woods or anywhere else you wish. Again imagine this place as lucidly as possible. Walk around and take in the scenery. How warm is it? What can you hear? Are there any noticeable scents? Enjoy yourself for as long as you like.
You can leave this hypnotic state whenever you wish, all you have to do is slowly open your eyes and take a few moments to contemplate the experience before going back to your daily life.
