Hypnosis

Hypnosis is a relaxed, focused state of consciousness in which the mind is receptive to suggestions. The brain wave activity during hypnosis is similar to the alpha and theta brain wave states- very pleasant and dreamy, as in just before you fall asleep. Hypnosis is always self hypnosis, as only you can allow it to occur. The hypnotic state may be brought about by a Hypnotist or it can be self-induced. Hypnosis is used in Hypnotherapy to discover underlying beliefs which present a challenge or non-productive pattern in the present life experience.

A Hypnotist is a facilitator who guides the individual into the hypnotic state and assists in establishing new patterns of thinking. In Hypnosis the critical thinking faculty is bypassed, opening the door to the subconscious mind where memories are stored. Mental imagery is very powerful in this focused state of being, so ideas presented that are compatible with what the individual wants, have a powerful impact on the mind.

A person’s will or inner strength, which resides in the conscious aspect of the mind is always functioning. If for whatever reason you will not allow yourself to accept the suggestions, they would have no effect on you. Therefore the effectiveness of Hypnosis is determined both by compliance and the degree of motivation. For example a smoker who uses hypnosis to stop smoking but is not committed to this goal, cannot be forced to do so.
( See also Hypnosis for Childbirth )