Understanding Hypnosis

Hypnosis is a trance state illustrated through the traits of extreme suggestibility, relaxation and heightened imagination. The word hypnosis is derived from a Greek that means ‘sleep’. However, hypnotism is not about putting people to sleep or taking over their mind. Hypnosis is simply aimed at bringing people to a state that makes them susceptible to the suggestions of the hypnotist.

Popular opinion about hypnotism is laced with both fact as well as fiction. Hypnotism is looked upon as a quack science and some believe that hypnotism is a form of mind control and/or brainwashing that can control a person's behavior and judgment. However, there is no scientific data to support these beliefs.

Self Hypnosis
Self-hypnosis is also know as autosuggestion as it is a hypnosis technique where anyone can induce suggestions to their own self without any outside influence. However, this technique is used more in relation with various self-help programs where a person is asked to use this method to stay on a diet or quit smoking.

Meditation Hypnosis
Meditation is believed to have been in existence since the last two thousand years when the Hindus first introduced it. Many times meditation and hypnosis are confused to be synonymous with each other, which is not true. During meditation as well as hypnosis, the subjects remain aware of their surroundings and are in the position to use their free will. Meditation and hypnosis can be used in accordance with each other to heighten self-awareness as well as to cure certain illnesses. Meditation hypnosis is a method that combines the benefits of meditation and hypnosis for providing a quick retreat into the inner self.

Hypnosis as therapy
Hypnosis therapy is chiefly aimed at removing the negative energies and thinking of the meditators and help them lead a confident and stress-free life. The guided hypnosis suggestions  are not designed to take over the will of the meditators but are simply a way to facilitate the path of relaxation. The conscious mind is always engulfed in a stream of thoughts and is continuously concerned about either the past or the present. Therefore, meditation hypnosis is a good and easy way to bypass the daily struggle and find some time to get in touch with the cosmos.

Some Popular Myths Dispelled
One of the most prevalent beliefs is that people under hypnosis are totally oblivious to the commands given to them by the hypnotist. This notion is not true and it has been proved scientifically that though the hypnotized person is under the influence of the hypnotist, all his/her faculties are alert and awake.

The hypnotist cannot hypnotize a anyone against their will. A person has to agree to accept the suggestions and allow the hypnotist to induce a sleep-like state. The receptor or the client the power to terminate the session anytime s/he feels the session is going beyond their comfort level.