Hypnosis is a natural state of consciousness that occurs multiple times a day—for example, just before falling asleep or waking up, while listening to music, driving, reading, engaging in sports, or performing creative activities. It is characterized by deep relaxation, concentrated and focused attention, and increased suggestibility. In this state, a person is particularly receptive to suggestions, positive affirmations, and beliefs, which in turn allows for the influence of deeply rooted thoughts and behaviors.
Thus, hypnosis is:
- A natural state that everyone experiences multiple times a day (daydreaming, reading, before falling asleep, just before waking up)
- Human – every person can be hypnotized if they choose to
- Easy to learn
- A matter of practice – the more often, the easier it becomes
- Suitable for both adults and children
- A wonderful tool with positive side effects
- A soothing state
- An underrated tool in therapy
With hypnosis, it is possible to influence the subconscious mind, including thoughts.
Characteristics of Hypnosis
- Deep Relaxation: The body and mind are relaxed, similar to the state just before falling asleep.
- Focused Attention: Attention is intensely directed toward specific thoughts, feelings, or sensations.
- Increased Suggestibility: People in hypnosis are more receptive to suggestions and instructions, making therapeutic interventions more effective.
Applications of Hypnosis
- Therapy (Hypnotherapy): Often used with regression techniques to treat anxiety (e.g., exam anxiety), phobias, stress, sleep disorders, chronic pain, addictions (e.g., smoking), and eating disorders.
- Medical/Clinical Hypnosis: Used for pain management and as a complementary or alternative method to anesthesia for certain surgical procedures.
- Sports (Sports Hypnosis): Used in recreational and professional sports to achieve goals and reach new performance levels.
- Self-Improvement: Helps enhance self-discipline, boost self-confidence, and encourage behavioral change.
- Entertainment: Stage hypnosis, often used for demonstration or entertainment purposes.
Myths and Misconceptions
- Magic or Mysticism: Hypnosis is not a supernatural state, but a natural state of consciousness, scientifically studied and explained.
- Loss of Control: A common myth is that a person loses control during hypnosis. In reality, the individual remains in control and can exit hypnosis at any time.
- Memory Loss: While some people may not remember every detail of their hypnosis session, most retain a clear memory of what occurred.
What Hypnosis Is Not:
- Sleep
- Fainting/Unconsciousness
- Anesthesia
- A sign of weakness or gullibility
- A state in which one can "get stuck" or is irreversible
- Religious, esoteric, or supernatural
- A truth serum
It is easier to hypnotize intelligent people because they better understand how to support the hypnotic process. A good imagination and the ability to concentrate are beneficial.
Scientific Evidence and Effectiveness
Science: Numerous studies confirm hypnosis is effective for pain relief, anxiety reduction, and smoking cessation.
Safety and Risks
Hypnosis can be interrupted at any time independently, and the hypnotic state can be ended by the individual. This means that the hypnotist cannot make the hypnotized person do anything without their consent.
Hypnosis is generally safe when performed by a qualified hypnotist.
Qualifications of Hypnotists
A qualified hypnotist should have comprehensive training in hypnosis and ideally a background in a related health profession (such as psychotherapy, physiotherapy, nursing, or medicine). Certifications and memberships in professional organizations can also indicate expertise.
I completed my training at OMNI International and am a member of SBVH (Schweizerischen Berufsverband der Hypnosetherapie).
If you have any questions or need further information about Fusiontherapy, feel free to contact me.