It is a scientific procedure, old as humankind, that makes use of the untapped potential of the mind. Hypnosis is a state of inner absorption, concentration and focused attention.  It is like using a magnifying glass to focus the energy rays of the sun and make them more powerful. Similarly, when our minds are concentrated and focused, we are able to use our minds more powerfully.

How Does it Work?
Hypnosis works by quieting the conscious mind while the other than conscious becomes more aware.  Positive suggestions given by the hypnotist are readily accepted by choice in this altered yet aware state.

Clinical hypnotists do essentially three things with hypnosis.

First, they encourage the use of imagination.  Mental imagery is very powerful, especially in a focused state of attention.  The mind seems capable of using imagery, even if it is only symbolic, to assist us in bringing about the things we are imagining.

A second basic hypnotic method is to present ideas or suggestions to the client. In a state of concentrated attention, ideas and suggestions that are compatible with what the patient wants seem to have a more powerful impact on the mind.

Finally, hypnosis may be used for other than conscious exploration, to better understand underlying motivations or identify whether past events or experiences are associated with causing a problem. Hypnosis avoids the critical censor of the conscious mind, which often defeats what we know to be in our best interests.

The clinical explanation of Hypnosis is a procedure during which a hypnotist suggests that a client, patient, or subject experience changes in sensations, perceptions, thoughts, or behavior.  The hypnotic context is generally established by an induction procedure.   Although there are many different hypnotic inductions, most include suggestions for relaxation, calmness, and well-being.   Instructions to imagine or think about pleasant experiences are also commonly included in hypnotic inductions.   People respond to hypnosis in different ways.  Some describe hypnosis as a normal state of focused attention, in which they feel very calm and relaxed.  Regardless of how and to what degree they respond, most people describe the experience as very pleasant.

Some people are very responsive to hypnotic suggestions and others are less responsive.  A person's ability to experience hypnotic suggestions can be inhibited by fears and concerns arising from some common misconceptions.  Contrary to some depictions of hypnosis in books, movies or television, people who have been hypnotized do not lose control over their behavior.  They typically remain aware of who they are and where they are, and unless amnesia has been specifically suggested, they usually remember what transpired during hypnosis.  Hypnosis makes it easier for people to experience suggestions, but it does not force them to have these experiences.

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*This presentation is for informational purposes only. No representation, either expressed or implied, is made or given regarding the medical consequences of information presented. This site is not intended to diagnose or provide treatment advice, no is it intended as a substitute for any medical advice for any condition requiring medical supervision. If you choose to use this information, it is your constitutional right. Individual results may vary.