The 6 myths of hypnosis
So what are the 6 myths of hypnosis? A recent article by hypnotherapist Nigel Lloyd describes the 6 things people are most likely to say to him when he tells them he is a hypnotherapist. So what are they?
Myth one: There’s something mystical or magical about hypnotherapy
Well, not really, hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation and focused attention. Whilst you are relaxed, we guide you to find the solutions to your problems, whatever they are. We only want to bring about positive change.
Myth two: The hypnotherapist has ‘special powers’
Well, that would be nice! Unfortunately, we can't fly or mind-read or bring about world peace, but what a good hypnotherapist will be able to do is to explain what they’re doing and why. You are fully involved in your therapy, you understand why we work the way we do and why we are asking you to do certain things e.g. positive thinking.
Myth three: I might be made to do something I don’t want to do
Absolutely never, you are always in conscious control throughout the time you’re in hypnosis. We will make positive suggestions to help you think things through, but we want you to make the change you are looking for, to be active in your treatment.
Myth four: You’re ‘asleep’ when you’re in hypnosis
You are awake and relaxed during the trance stage, you are focused on being in hypnosis. Check out my 'how does this work?' page to see how hypnosis actually triggers a very active, problem-solving state of mind. You will feel relaxed but you are not asleep.
Myth five: I might get stuck in hypnosis
This isn't possible, hypnosis is a state of relaxation and focused attention, it’s not possible to get ‘stuck’ in hypnosis.
Myth six: It’ll never work for me – I can’t be hypnotised
Well, hypnosis involves skills that can be learnt and improved on, you can’t be hypnotised against your will - if you don’t want to be hypnotised, then you can’t be.
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