When we are in a deep state of relaxation, our unconscious mind becomes more susceptible to suggestion. This means that when a hypnotherapist invites us into this state and uses suggestion techniques, our thought patterns and behaviours can be encouraged to change.
As a result, this can be particularly helpful for changing habits, overcoming anxiety and easing stress. It’s even been recognised by the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as an effective treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. http://bit.ly/39nNuT7
Hypnotherapy
However, there are a few myths and misconceptions surrounding hypnotherapy which can put people off. To sort fact from fiction, truth behind these common myths are:
1. The hypnotherapist will be able to make me do things I don’t want to do.
People usually have this fear because they’ve seen stage or TV hypnosis, but this certainly isn’t the case. Stage hypnotists set the scene for these amusing antics and invite volunteers to get up on stage; when someone does this, they are accepting their role.
In hypnosis, a person will be more open to suggestion and therefore able to change patterns of behaviour that are unhelpful, but no one can make you do anything you don’t want to do. A key part in the success of hypnotherapy is a willing client.
2. Hypnotherapists can control your mind
Hypnosis is not mind control! Someone who is having hypnosis is participating by choice and, while they are usually very relaxed, they remain in control. During a session, the hypnotherapist will make suggestions which you will be free to accept or reject.
Highly creative people are often more open to the suggestions made in hypnosis, because they are able to consider and try out suggestions in their imagination.
3. If I get hypnotised I won’t remember anything from the session
It’s completely normal for your mind to wander while in hypnosis, so there may be times where you are aware of what’s being said, and times where you may not be. Therefore your memories of the session can vary. You may remember some of what’s been said, or nothing at all – both are perfectly normal.
4. If I get put into a state of hypnosis, I may not come out of it
Hypnosis is a completely natural state that we all drift in and out of throughout the day. Everyone has the ability to take themselves out of the hypnotic state – this can be done simply by opening our eyes! If a session is interrupted and the hypnotherapist isn’t there to “talk you back”, you will eventually drift back to awareness anyway, a little like waking up from a nap.
5. Hypnotherapy works like magic
Sometimes it might seem so! When a therapist communicates with your unconscious mind, change can happen quickly and easily. However, hypnotherapy is a collaborative process between you and your practitioner, and so requires effort and a desire to change on your part.
6. Only the “weak-willed” can be hypnotised
Let’s recap what hypnosis really is. Hypnosis is a state of focused attention and deepen relaxation, similar to what experienced when you’re absorbed in a creative task or sport. It could therefore be argued that those who are very strong willed are actually better hypnotic subjects.
Most people can achieve some level of hypnotic trance; the key is willingness. In short, if you don’t want to be hypnotised, you won’t be.
If you would like to book a FREE Hypnotherapy Consultation to understand more and how I can help you please contact me.