subject: Five Myths of Hypnosis [print this page] Five Myths of Hypnosis Five Myths of Hypnosis
Are you curious about hypnosis? What do you already know about it? Your ideas may be influenced by the media, like T.V. shows or books that feature the all-knowing, powerful hypnotist.
However, hypnosis is an approved treatment for many illnesses. Hypnosis is widely used to help many types of issues, such as quitting smoking, losing weight, eliminating a phobia, relieving pain and more. Since 1958, The American Medical Association has recognized the benefits of hypnosis in treating many medical conditions.
Since you're probably not following the latest news from the AMA, your exposure to hypnosis may only be from television programs or stage hypnosis. I want to highlight five common myths of hypnosis. Are yours on this list?
1. Hypnosis is mind control. This seems to be a very common perception and probably based on movies or novels books that have reinforced this image. Some people are curious about using hypnosis but are worried that being hypnotized would allow another individual to control their mind. While it makes for fun entertainment, it is absolutely false. The real truth is that hypnosis actually helps a person gain more control over his/her own mind.
2. The hypnotist has special powers. When you receive hypnosis treatment for a medical condition, you'll be guided by a hypnotherapist, the accurate name for the person performing this process. Often, this misunderstanding is endorsed by live performances, or stage shows, done for entertainment purposes only. A hypnotherapist does not have any magical powers. He or she has simply studied specific techniques that will help an individual tap into various sections of their mind and allow them to become more open to certain suggestions.
3. There is a loss of awareness during hypnosis. This myth probably stems from people's nervousness over how hypnosis works or what it feels like. You are not asleep, unconscious or unaware of your surroundings. During hypnosis, you're in a relaxed state of mind. You can hear the hypnotherapist and noises around you. You're in a calm but focused state.
4. Only weak-minded people can be hypnotized. This myth comes from the belief that hypnosis is solely based on one person controlling another person's mind. However, based on extensive research conducted over the years, it has been shown that more intelligent people have a stronger grasp of hypnosis and are able to enter the relaxed state more easily.
5. Hypnosis is fake. Some people believe that hypnosis is only used as a means of entertainment or only happens to those who have an active imagination. There are plenty of entertaining hypnotists, and stage hypnosis can be a lot of fun. However, hypnosis itself is a very real tool in helping people overcome obstacles or illnesses and achieve success.
I hope I've smashed these myths for you. If you're curious about hypnosis, please contact me. I'd love to talk to you about hypnosis can help you reach your goals.
