How Does Being Hypnotized Work?

There are many myths about hypnosis. These misconceptions occur due to stage acts and theatrical performances. Being hypnotized can be beneficial to people wanting to change something about themselves they think they have no control of. Hypnosis helps them take control of their subconscious and often overcome a particular situation or problem.

Hypnosis

Hypnosis, commonly called hypnotherapy, is a trance-like state in which your subconscious is more focused and open to suggestions. A person under hypnosis can still hear and is aware of their surroundings and happenings. Their free will and ability to make choices is not affected at all. 

Subconscious

When under hypnosis, the subconscious mind is 88 percent more alert and open to suggestions than when in a conscious state. Because of this, the mind is able to accept suggestions and create behavior and body changes according to the suggestions made. 

Free Will

Three key elements must be present for hypnosis to work: belief, desire and expectancy. You must believe it will work, have a desire for it to work and expect it to work. The reason these must be present is because your free will still works while under hypnosis. So if you really don't want to do what is suggested, you won't and hypnosis will not be effective.

Brain Wave Activity

There are four levels of brain wave activity: Beta, Alpha, Theta, and Delta. Beta is complete and total consciousness with Delta being a deep unconscious state. Alpha and Theta are the levels in between. Alpha can be compared to daydreaming or drifting in thought for a bit. Theta is when you are in a dream state, right above the Delta level. The Alpha level in brain wave activity is all that is required to enter into hypnosis. This is why free will is not affected; you are still within a level on consciousness and able to make your own decisions.