Whenever I meet with my clients, I often hear about their misconceptions and myths they’ve heard about hypnosis. Most of these usually come from films, books, or even the media, creating confusion and sometimes fear. As a result, these misunderstandings may prevent people from exploring the true benefits of hypnosis.

The truth is that none of these myths are true.

So, I thought, why not take a moment to clarify some mistaken beliefs about hypnosis, and set the record straight.

1.   Hypnosis is the Work of the Devil

Yes, there are some who fear this. But all deities aside, hypnosis just allows you to tap into your subconscious mind for self-improvement. It is a safe and natural process that can lead to personal growth. There is nothing demonic or diabolical about hypnosis, at all!

2.   Only Weak-Minded People Can be Hypnotized

Some people also believe that if you have a lower IQ or are weak-willed, you can be easily hypnotized, or even that intelligent people are resistant to hypnosis. This is incorrect. Hypnosis or your level of hypnotizability has nothing to do with your IQ level. As long as you are able to understand and follow suggestions, you could be a good fit for hypnosis.

3.   Hypnosis is Just Relaxation

Relaxation is a part of hypnosis, but it is just the beginning. Hypnosis creates a focused suggestible state that helps to address deeper issues or goals. This state of awareness lets you explore and reframe your underlying beliefs, fears, or thoughts that might hold you back.

4.   You Are Asleep During Hypnosis

This is a very common myth regarding hypnosis. Many people think that when you are hypnotized, you are basically asleep. In fact, you are not. Hypnosis is just a heightened and relaxed state, during which you are still very well aware of your surroundings. You can always hear, talk, and feel the environment around you, and that is certainly not the experience we have when we sleep.

5.   Hypnosis Can Control Your Mind

Like many other myths about hypnosis, people think that a hypnotist can take control of your mind, or can make you do things like the chicken dance or rob a bank, or make you accept things that you don’t want to. In reality, while in a hypnotized state, you cannot be made to do or say things against your own will, and you are always in control of your actions. The hypnotist will only be guiding you during the state, while you do all the heavy lifting yourself. Rest assured, the chicken dance is not a part of our practice!

6.   One Can Get Stuck In Hypnosis

This is completely untrue, and you cannot get stuck in a state of hypnosis. If the hypnotist (myself, in this case) I didn’t bring you out of hypnosis, and suddenly left the room while you were hypnotized, you would eventually just come out of it on your own, and return to a fully awakened state.

7.   Revealing Your Deepest Secret During Hypnosis

Not true at all. During a session, your mind is fully “awake”, just in a relaxed state. As I mentioned above, if you don’t wish to talk about something, you are not compelled to do so at all.

8.   Hypnosis Is Just For Entertainment

While stage hypnosis may seem like fun to watch, therapeutic hypnosis is something entirely different. Therapeutic hypnosis has successfully helped people get over their fears, reduce stress, improve confidence, and stop undesirable or unhealthy habits. Many of my clients have found relief and transformation through this safe and effective approach.

I hope that this post has helped to clarify and dispel some common myths about hypnosis. I offer a free screening consultation for every client, during which I can answer any questions, and determine if hypnosis will be right for you.

Don’t let any myths or skepticism stand in the way of your journey to wellness. Take the step and contact me for a free consultation now.