Article by Lamb
What is hypnosis
Hypnosis is a psychological practice where one person, often called a hypnotist, uses focused communication and suggestions to guide another person into a state of altered consciousness or deep focus. This state, commonly referred to as a trance, is characterized by heightened suggestibility, where the person’s mind becomes more open to accepting and responding to ideas or instructions.
In hypnosis, the hypnotist builds on suggestions to shape the subject’s experiences. These suggestions can range from simple commands, like feeling relaxed, to more complex visualizations or sensations. The process involves directing the subject’s attention inward, encouraging them to focus deeply on specific thoughts, images, or sensations. By doing this, the hypnotist can lead the subject to experience changes in perception, emotion, or even physical sensations. For instance, someone under hypnosis might feel as though they are floating, experience a change in body temperature, or even perceive themselves in a different environment—all based on the hypnotist’s guidance.
Unlike what is often portrayed in media, hypnosis is not about controlling someone’s mind against their will. Instead, it is a collaborative process where the hypnotist and the subject work together to achieve a desired mental state or effect. The subject always maintains a level of awareness and can choose to follow or reject the suggestions given.
In essence, hypnosis is a versatile tool that explores the mind’s potential to alter perception, feeling, and behaviour through guided suggestion and focused attention. It’s less about a mystical “trance state” and more about tapping into the powerful connection between thought, belief, and experience.
How does hypnosis feel
In essence, hypnosis is a versatile tool that explores the mind’s potential to alter perception, feeling, and behaviour through guided suggestion and focused attention. It’s less about a mystical “trance state” and more about tapping into the powerful connection between thought, belief, and experience.
While under hypnosis, some individuals may find their thoughts becoming slower or even difficult to form, entering a state where their mind feels blank or calm. Conversely, others might remain fully aware and able to think clearly. The experience can feel like a daydream for some, where their imagination becomes vivid and their inner world feels more tangible than their external environment.
A crucial part of hypnosis is the collaboration between the hypnotist and the subject. Both parties should communicate openly about their expectations and desires for the session. This helps tailor the experience to what they want to achieve—whether it’s relaxation, exploring different mental states, or working on specific personal goals. Negotiation and mutual understanding ensure that the experience is comfortable and effective for both.
It’s also important to note that the feeling of hypnosis can change over time or even within a single session. Initial feelings might evolve as the person becomes more accustomed to the process or as different techniques and suggestions are introduced. Because hypnosis is such a personal experience, there is no single “correct” way to feel while under hypnosis. The subjective nature of the experience is what makes hypnosis a versatile and unique tool for exploring the mind and its potential.
