Hypnosis is a normal natural state of awareness that is the domain of the subconscious mind. It is not sleep, unconsciousness, magic or even mind control. It is very similar to daydreaming, meditation or being in a state of reverie. Hypnosis is often described as "meditation with words". During hypnosis the client is completely aware of his or her surroundings. If you ask a hypnotized person a question they will answer, either verbally or by signal.
Hypnosis is a powerful therapeutic tool for accessing the subconscious mind to achieve desired changes and personal goals. It was first recognized as a complimentary healing modality by the British Medical Association in 1955 and then by the American Medical Association in 1958.
HYPNOSIS IS 100% SAFE. All hypnosis is self hypnosis. No one can become "stuck" during hypnosis. There is no surrender of control. No one can be made to reveal secrets or other private information while in the hypnotic state. No one can be hypnotized against their will or be forced to do something that goes against their own morals or personal ethics.
Hypnosis is now considered to be a state of "selective thinking" where the client chooses to experience only what is relevant to the task at hand, blocking out everything else. It may also be described as guided concentration. The guidance may be provided by a qualified hypnotist or in the case of self hypnosis, by the individual.
I am often asked if most people can be hypnotized. The answer is yes, 95% of people who chose to experience hypnosis can be hypnotized. There is of course a small number of people who cannot be hypnotized; these include people who have I.Q.'s of less than 70, people who have a severe mental illness and people who really do not want to be hypnotized (this is almost always due to a fear of being controlled).
