If you’ve ever considered hypnosis, then you probably have questions about how it works. Hypnosis has many benefits and can provide assistance with stress management and overcoming phobias.
Additionally, many people use hypnosis for sleep and dream therapy or for relief from other physical or emotional problems. Hypnosis provides relief without habit-forming medication and can be used in numerous ways.
However, many people have misconceptions about hypnosis. It’s important to learn the facts about hypnosis in order to better understand its many healing properties.
Keep reading to discuss 7 common hypnosis myths and learn the true benefits, and to learn how you can benefit from hypnosis.
Common Hypnosis Myths
Hypnosis has been around since ancient times. Its believed that the Egyptians used hypnosis for surgical procedures and religious purposes. Hieroglyphics found in ancient tombs suggested this.
It’s thought that these hieroglyphics are from around 3000 BC, showing how long hypnosis has been used to treat people. Since hypnosis was originally associated with religious rites, people conceived inaccurate myths about the practice.
One of the most common myths is that hypnosis will cause a person to lose consciousness or wake up with amnesia. This isn’t true and may result is a fear of hypnosis.
Hypnosis is the exact opposite of losing consciousness. When hypnotized, a person is in a heightened state of consciousness.
Myth #1: Amnesia or Losing Consciousness
One of the most common myths is that hypnosis will cause a person to lose consciousness or wake up with amnesia. This is not the case for the vast majority of people, and only partially true in the rarest occasions.
Some people may go into a deep trance. Spontaneous amnesia may accompany this, but only in extremely rare circumstances. However, most people will remember everything from their hypnosis.
A therapist may help you to recall an experience that you have forgotten, but you will remember what you discussed during your session.
Myth #2: Mind Control
Real-life hypnosis is very different from what you would see on television or in the movies. Your hypnotherapist is not going to control your mind. You are the only person who can do that.
Your hypnotherapist will make suggestions to help you overcome fears or anxieties. They will also make suggestions to assist you with quitting any unwanted habits.
As suggestions are made, if you disagree or are confused, your subconscious will fail to accept the request. You will be safe from mind control at all times.
Myth #3: You’re Asleep While Hypnotized
This is another common myth that needs to be debunked. When you’re hypnotized, you’re not asleep. You’re completely aware of your surroundings.
Your eyes are closed to help with focus and concentration. In fact, when hypnotized, you’re typically in a heightened state of awareness. That’s the exact opposite of being asleep.
Your body is extremely relaxed, as is your mind. You will still have control of your senses and will be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Myth #4: You Think You’ve Never Been Hypnotized
You may think you’ve never been under hypnosis, but the truth is you probably have.
Have you ever caught yourself in a daydream? If yes, then you’ve been hypnotized. The same can be said if you’ve ever lost yourself in a book or movie.
You’re wide awake, but you lose awareness of your surroundings. This is because you are so acutely focused on the task at hand that everything else fades into the background.
It’s not that you’ve lost consciousness or have fallen asleep. You’re just hyper-focused at that particular moment.
Myth #5: Hypnosis Can Manipulate People Into Admitting Hidden Truths
It’s not uncommon to fear what you might say while under hypnosis. Movies and stage acts may have led you to believe that you will be completely powerless. This simply is not true.
What actually happens is this: hypnosis allows you to learn things about yourself you may have forgotten. It helps you connect with your subconscious. This allows you to understand feelings of yours that may have confused you previously.
Since you are completely awake the entire time, you’ll never admit anything against your will. You are in complete control of what you do or don’t say.
Myth #6: Hypnotherapists are Supernatural or Have “Magical Powers”
Hypnotherapists are not mystical supernatural beings. They are trained professionals who will work with you and discuss treatment goals, depending on the results you look to achieve.
Sometimes, a hypnotherapist will work with you using guided imagery. This type of hypnosis can help you with body and mind issues you may have.
While the results of hypnosis may seem magical, it’s important to understand that this isn’t because of anything supernatural. It’s just your amazing brain at work.
Myth #7: Hypnotherapy Doesn’t Work
This last myth is completely untrue. Many psychoanalysts have had success with hypnosis. Various scientific and medical associations have confirmed the effectiveness of hypnosis.
Hypnosis helps people with various types of health and emotional issues. This may include stress, anxiety, smoking, overeating, sleep disorders, fears and phobias, and depression. It can even help with alcoholism.
Break Free From the Stereotypes
Hypnosis has been around since ancient times. It’s proven to help people with a myriad of issues. Various scientific publications have acknowledged the positive benefits of hypnosis, dispelling common hypnosis myths.
Hypnosis puts you into an extremely relaxed state of mind, where you are open to positive suggestions. These positive suggestions aim to help people once they emerge from their trance-like state of mind.
Coupled with guided imagery, hypnosis can help you in numerous ways.
If you’re interested in hypnosis for private or group events, then we invite you to contact us. We’ll discuss with you the countless benefits of hypnosis and how it can help you with your personal goals.
