It is thought that hypnosis, or healing by trance state, is possibly one of the oldest phenomena known to man and has been found in almost every culture in some way. The word hypnosis however, didn’t come into use until the mid 1800’s and is derived from the Greek work “hypnos” which means sleep.

It is thought that hypnosis works by altering our state of consciousness in a way where the left side of your brain is “turned off” and the right side is much more alert. The two sides of your brain process information in very different ways. One side is usually more dominant than the other, and you will process information using whichever side is dominant. For example, the left side of your brain is very linear. It takes pieces of a problem, lines them up in a logical order, and then draws a conclusion from them. If you enjoy making lists and planning your days out, you are probably a “lefty” when it comes to the dominant side of your brain. You generally have no problem expressing yourself with words and no trouble processing symbols.

Hypnotherapy is considered to be a medically safe and effective way to overcome problems that you may be experiencing in your life, and to help you reach your goals. Hypnosis can be effective to help you eliminate bad habits such as smoking; to effectively deal with any emotional issues; help reduce stress; change subconscious patterns in your behaviour; and even help with regression work such as investigating past lives.

Researchers say that most people actually enter into a hypnosis like state all on their own throughout their day. They believe that when you are daydreaming for instance, you are in a naturally relaxed and “altered” state that is similar to hypnosis.

It is believed that anyone can be hypnotized if they wanted to be. A good hypnotherapist will start by putting you at ease – whether by discussing your fears, answering your questions, or just talking to you. Once you are relaxed, you r subconscious mind is much more receptive to hypnosis.

Did You Know?

1. You don’t lose consciousness when you are hypnotized?
2. You never lose control during hypnosis. (You won’t have to fear accepting suggestions that go against any of your beliefs)
3. You can’t get stuck in hypnosis. You come out of hypnosis quickly and easily, and feel completely alert.
4. Hypnosis is not a quick fix for any problem.
5. You will remember what happens during your session, although there may be some details you can’t recall much in the same way as when you watch a movie you can’t recall every moment during the film. Only a very small percentage of people who enter into a hypnotic trance will actually have spontaneous amnesia.

Hypnosis is not a regulated field so exercise caution when choosing a hypnotherapist. You should be looking for training, qualifications, client testimonials, and looking to family and friends for referrals.