Myths Related to Hypnosis

Hypnotism is a skilled technique that helps to reach the depths of the human mind. Through hypnosis, you can communicate with your inner being. This results in a better understanding of yourself and the people around you. It alters your thinking process and the way you act and react to situations. This centuries old practice that was once looked at with disdain and suspicion is now a recognized mode of therapy. Hypnosis is respected and recognized in scientific and medical circles including the American Medical Association and the British Medical Association.  This article discusses some common myths related to hypnosis.

Hypnosis Myth:  Under hypnosis you lose control over yourself. 

Reality: It is a misconception that under hypnosis you will lose control over yourself. Some people fear that they may do or say something improper or unexpected in the trance state. People have this belief often because of the way people in hypnosis are portrayed in movies and TV shows. In reality, one gains more control over their lives through hypnosis. Hypnosis is a state of trance when you are always aware of everything around you. You will never do or say anything you do not desire to do in the hypnotic state. 

Hypnosis Myth:  Some people cannot be hypnotized.  

Reality: Knowingly and unknowingly we are engaged in a trance-like hypnotic state when we deeply think or imagine something. The degree of concentration varies from person to person. Some people can be easily hypnotized while others cannot. This depends on how well they can concentrate but everyone has a tendency to get influenced or hypnotized.

Hypnosis Myth:  You can get stuck during hypnosis sessions.

Reality: People think that if the hypnotist leaves in the middle of the hypnosis session, they will never be able to come out of that state. This is not true; the person will eventually come out of trance on his or her own. Sometimes it happens that during hypnosis sessions people fall asleep, but it never happens that they fail to come out of the hypnotic state. Hypnosis is completely safe and a natural treatment for many problems.

Hypnosis Myth: Only weak minded people can get hypnotized.

Reality: Hypnosis has nothing to do with one being “weak-minded”.  People allow themselves to be hypnotized to transform their lives through positive suggestions. While concentration is not the sole criterion for hypnotizability, those who can concentrate well can be hypnotized easily and deeply. Hypnosis helps you overcome various problems so it is suggested that when you are practicing self-hypnosis, try to concentrate well.

Hypnosis Myth:  You lose consciousness under hypnosis.

Reality: In hypnosis a person is completely aware of his/her surroundings at all times. The mind is completely relaxed and is open to accept suggestions. While people may fall asleep at some point during hypnosis, it will continue to provide useful results.

Hypnosis Myth:  You can be hypnotized without your consent.

Reality: Hypnosis is a consent state and can never be entered into without the consent of the participant.  No one can be forced to do go into hypnosis just as they cannot be forced to do or say anything against their well as they are always in control and are always in command while they are in the hypnotic state.

Hypnosis Myth: Hypnotists have special powers and hypnosis is against religion.

Reality:  Such misconceptions are the result of moviemakers ideas of what a hypnotist does and the mysterious ways in which the human mind functions. The fact is that a hypnotist, through his or her knowledge and skill  can induce hypnosis. Regarding the misconception that hypnosis is against religion or can be misused for the wrong purpose, be certain to visit a professional hypnotist who follows a Code of Ethics as set forth by the National Guild of Hypnotists.  This will ensure that he or she is principled and professional.

Eric Zeisler is an NGH Certified New York City hypnotist specializing in Weight Loss Hypnosis, Stop Smoking Hypnosis, Stress Management Hypnosis, Sports & Performance, Confidence, Procrastination, Creative Blocks and more.  With an Advanced Master Clinical Certification from the International Association of Counselors and Therapists, he is a Certified Sports and Performance Specialist and NLP Practitioner from the National Federation of Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Browse through our website to know learn about Eric Zeisler’s self hypnosis CDs and MP3s.


Home | About us | FAQ | Testimonials | Links | Contact us | Sitemap