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What
is hypnosis?
When the word "hypnosis"
is mentioned in everyday conversation, it seems to stir many varied
reactions in people. These responses range frm disbelief to terror
or even laughter. On the other hand, some people believe that hypnosis
can work miracles. All these reactions stem from ideas and information
that are untrue.
There are many misconceptions
about hypnosis. A simple definition of hypnosis is that it is a
state of increased suggestibility and concentration. First of all,
DO NOT EXPECT TO GO TO SLEEP or lose touch with reality. You will
know everything that is going on around you. On awakening, some
people express disappointment with the experience. They insist that
they have heard everything that was going on or that they were unaffected
by the hypnotist. This arises out of misconceptions they entertain
concerning the nature of hypnosis. The lack of consciousness and
amnesia which they possibly anticipate is not experienced by the
vast majority of people. Nevertheless, although the individual may
consciously believe that their trance was extremely light or that
they had not been hypnotically affected, the suggestions which have
been made to them in most cases will exercise influence, unless
the person deliberately sets out to prove that the suggestions will
not work.
Some people will,
on waking, insist that they have not been hypnotized. This attitude
may be maintained even though it may be demonstrated to the person
that they cannot open their eyes or pull both hands apart, or whatever
challenge is put to them. Even then, some people will insist that
despite this evidence, they could have opened their eyes or pulled
their hands apart, if they had wished to do so.
The majority of people
who insist that they have only experienced a light trance or not
at all should realize that it is perfectly normal that they should
hear external noises and maintain rapport with the hypnotist and
remember everything that went on. In other words, on awakening,
you should feel no different than you did before being hypnotized,
but the effects will be there. To quote the June 1977 issue of "Psychology
Today":
People who are hypnotized
for the first time are frequently disappointed to find that they
experience nothing overwhelming. They feel mildly relaxed but they
remain in touch with reality and in control of their thoughts. They
may discover that the hypnotist's suggestions are quite resistable.
Contrary to what most people believe, a person under hypnosis need
not fall asleep, or lose contact with his surroundings or reinquish
his will. He is often able to recall everything that happened during
the trance and will act perfectly normal.
Physicians, Psychologists,
and Hypnotherapists have used hypnosis as a valuable tool in solving
such problems as sleep disturbance, concentration and memory, fears
and phobias, stuttering and control of pain and asthma. Hypnosis
has also been helpful in treating smoking, overeating, alcholism,
bust development, skin conditions such as acne and warts, and so
on.
Hypnosis is a relaxing
and enjoyable experience. Remember, the hypnotherapist needs your
cooperation, as all hypnosis is self-hypnosis. All the hypnotherapist
does is guide you into it.
The
Institute of Hypnotherapy
Edison, New Jersey 08837
190 Lincoln Highway
(732) 446-5995
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