Background of Hypnosis

The origins of the word Hypnosis is derived from the Greek word , Hypnos, which means 'to sleep'. Whilst not asleep, the 'state of hypnosis' is a common occurrence for us all, when we go into a very, very relaxed state of mind. A good technical definition of hypnosis is:

"A state of relaxation and concentration at one with a heightened awareness induced by suggestion."

There is evidence that Hypnosis has been in use for thousands of years, as far back as about the fourth century BC. The ancient Greeks and Romans used hypnosis for therapeutic benefit. Hypnosis and suggestion as we know it can be traced back to the Austrian, Franz Anton Mesmer in the 1700's. Mesmer (from where the term 'mesmerism' came) treated patients at his Paris salon using a state of relaxation and then giving the patient suggestion. He also used magnets, which even today are still believed to have healing properties. Mesmers disciples eventually discarded the magnets but continued to use relaxation and therapy using carefully worded suggestions.

During the 1900's the practice of inducing relaxation and the use of carefully worded suggestions was known as 'Suggestive Therapeutics'. A later developer of this technique was Milton Erickson who specifically used metaphors, allowing the subject to develop their own suggestions. Generally the technique is now commonly termed as hypnotherapy. The fact remains that in the state of 'Hypnosis', a person is deeply relaxed. Whilst in this more relaxed state, it is easier to accept beneficial suggestions (e.g. "you are now a non smoker") and a by product of the whole is memory enhancement as we exercise the subconscious mind.

There is absolutely no question of being controlled or manipulated, or even induced into a deep trance state. A person in hypnosis, sometimes referred to as conscious hypnosis, is not 'asleep'; they are often more aware of what is taking place than usual and their senses function more efficiently than normal.

Myths and misconceptions...
Many people's first exposure to hypnosis is seeing stage hypnotists at work who rely on showmanship and the dramatic reactions of their subjects to entertain others. Of course, the sillier the 'volunteers' look the more the audience like it. This unfortunate impression leads people to believe that under hypnosis they may be controlled or manipulated or made to do something 'silly'. This impression that Hypnosis is 'magical' or involves 'mind control' couldn't be further from the truth.

The Truth about Hypnosis...
The Truth is that Hypnosis is a completely safe state that we enter naturally a few times each day. Hypnosis is a state in which the mind can work efficiently by bypassing the conscious mind and addressing the 'workhorse' of the brain, the subconscious mind. People who have experienced Hypnosis are often pleasantly surprised at how amazing the experience feels. They are amazed at how much they are aware and in control. Hypnosis is just about relaxation and very therapeutic. You may feel very heavy, relaxed, lethargic or quite light and tingly. It is a wonderful, deeply pleasant and relaxing experience.

How is it brought about...
I use my voice to take you back into the natural state of Hypnosis. You are unlikely to feel 'hypnotised' as such, as there is no such thing as a 'Hypnotised' feeling, but you will experience a feeling of mental and physical relaxation and your memory may well be enhanced.