Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is hypnosis?
A: It is widely held that hypnosis is a state of heightened suggestibility.
Q: How does it work?
A: It is brought about by shifting the balance between two different parts of the mind. They are the Conscious Mind (which is always active and deals with the outside world through our sensory experiences in an objective way) and the Sub-Conscious Mind (which is passive and accepts information subjectively and serves as a resource. It is the storehouse of all our memories and beliefs. It is also the Control Center for the automatic functions of the body).
During hypnosis, the Conscious mind recedes and becomes passive while the Sub-Conscious becomes active and accessible.
Q: Will I be able to go into the hypnotic state?
A: Yes, many normal people have many times been in a state that is essentially the same as the hypnotic state. If you have been completely absorbed in something you were doing, e.g. reading a highly interesting novel and someone spoke to you but you did not hear them, this is very similar to a hypnotic state.
Q: Will I lose consciousness?
A: No! No more than you do when you are paying complete attention to your reading. The word
"sleep" is frequently used with hypnosis because your eyes are closed and you are relaxed.
Q: Will I have difficulty awakening?
A: No! You are at all times able to "awaken" yourself should you wish to do so (however, you should remain in the hypnotic state until your therapist asks you to awaken.
Q: Can I be hypnotized against my will?
A: No! You can and always will have the ability to refuse to do so, if you so desire.
Q: If I am hypnotized, can anyone suggest that I do something against my ethics or morals?
A: No! You can not be suggested to do anything that you strongly believe against your moral values or ethical beliefs.
Q: Is it possible to hypnotize myself?
A: Yes! Most people with little practice and help can learn to do self-hypnosis.