What Is Hypnosis?

The terms “hypnosis” and “hypnotherapy” are often used interchangeably.  Hypnosis is a state of awareness and is often also referred to as ‘trance’.  Hypnotherapy refers to the use of therapeutic techniques whilst a person is in a hypnotic state.  

Contrary to what you might think, you experience hypnotic-like states several times a day and you go in and out of them quite naturally.  For example, when you’re reading a good book, watching a film or tv programme and you get absorbed in what’s going on and often, emotionally affected by it.  You might be less aware of your surroundings, oblivious to the doorbell ringing and experience what we call time distortion, where more time has passed than you thought. 

You pass through a hypnotic-like state to go to sleep.  This is known as the hypnagogic state, and you pass through one to come fully awake after sleeping.  This is known as the hypnopompic state.   

You may have heard of ‘highway hypnosis’ used to describe that experience where you travel from a to b with little memory of the journey. 

The hypnotic state is characterised as: 

A state of absorption 

A narrowing down of the focus of your attention 

A quietening of the mind 

In addition you may experience: 

A relaxed feeling 

Less awareness of your body 

A feeling of not wanting to move 

A loss of the sense of time 

This state of absorption is ideal for making changes.  With a quietened conscious mind, you are more easily able to take on new ideas, perceptions and suggestions in line with what you want, what has brought you to therapy.   

And it’s important to know that you are always in control.