Common Hypnosis Myths
A young, beautiful woman runs frantically through dark and empty streets. Terrified, she is being pursued by
something sinister and evil. Dracula's menacing figure moves at super- human speed towards her and effortlessly
captures her. He stares into her eyes and with the snap of his fingers she is instantly "hypnotised" under
his power and completely at his mercy.
It's all very well for Hollywood movies to sensationalise hypnosis for the sake of a good story. It makes for
great entertainment, but it's hardly factual. The portrayal of Hypnosis in movies creates a great deal of confusion
and is responsible for many myths & misconceptions about what it actually is. Let's look at some of the
most common of them.
Myth: Hypnosis is an abnormal state of mind
Wrong! Hypnosis is a natural state that we go in and out of a number of times every day. If you drive, you may
remember a time when you've driven from one location to another, and when you've arrived at your destination you
may not remember how you got there. While you weren't formally hypnotised, you were in a hypnotic state of mind.
The same can be said for daydreaming or getting really engrossed in a good book. All Hypnotherapy does is guide you
into this natural state where to communicate directly with your subconscious mind to achieve positive change and
personal growth.
Myth: You can be hypnotised against your will
Wrong! All hypnosis is self hypnosis. To become hypnotised, you have to allow hypnosis to take place and actively
follow the Hypnotherapist's instructions.
Myth: You can lose control in Hypnosis and could say or do something you don't want to
Wrong! You remain in control the whole time you are in hypnosis. In fact, it is impossible to do something
that you are morally opposed to while you are hypnotised.
Myth: You may get permanently stuck in Hypnosis and never wake up
Wrong! No-one has ever gotten "stuck" in Hypnosis. You can awaken at any time simply by opening your eyes.
Remember, hypnosis is a natural state that we go into many times each day but we always come back out of them
easily and naturally.
Myth: You are asleep when you are in Hypnosis.
Wrong! While it may look like someone is asleep when they are in Hypnosis because, in most cases, their eyes are
closed and they are in a very relaxed state, but they are definitely not sleeping. In fact hypnosis is a state of
hyper focussed attention. And while in hypnosis, you will be alert and aware of your surroundings.
Myth: Hypnosis only works on week-minded people
Wrong! Anyone of average intelligence can experience hypnosis if they want to. As long as you are capable of
following directions, you can allow yourself to be hypnotised. However, if someone has a very low IQ or is
suffering from dementia, they could not focus their attention long enough to benefit from Hypnosis.
Author Information:
Rachel Ford
Clinical
Hypnotherapist
http://www.yourmindzone.com
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