Tips for Learning About Hypnotism

When practiced responsibly, hypnosis can benefit oneself or others by helping with relaxation, pain management or achievement of goals. The outcome and success of hypnotism is dependent on willingness to be hypnotized, the expected outcome and the attitude the recipient has toward the process.

General Information

• Hypnotism is a state of hyper-focus in which learned behaviors and responses fade into the background, and sensory input is the primary source of information. You are more able (or prone, depending on the circumstance) to take in and react directly to given information in this state.


• You experience hypnosis all the time! “Immersion” in an activity is actually a hypnotic state. This happens when you drive long distances, watch something really interesting, or play video games.


• Hypnotic suggestion, what people usually refer to when talking about hypnotism, is information given to someone in a hypnotic state. Because it bypasses the filters of stored information and perception, the subject accepts this information "as is". If the information doesn't quite make sense, the mind often fabricates a clever excuse or explanation to compensate.


• Try different methods of self-hypnosis before attempting to learn hypnotism on others. This will familiarize you with the process, and make you more likely to succeed further on. The more comfortable and confident you are in your abilities, the more others will be too.


• Trust, confidence, and relaxation. These elements are the keys to helping someone enter a hypnotic state. If you are hypnotizing yourself, continually reaffirm these feelings throughout the process. Hypnosis will not be possible without a quiet, uninterrupted environment.


• Do your research from a variety of reputable sources. Learning the process of hypnotism for free is possible, but should include a trip to the library. There is a wealth of useful information in psychology textbooks and journals, scientific reference books, and case study reports. If you plan to use a book specifically about hypnotism, research the author’s history, education and reputation first.


• Hypnotism for smoking cessation and weight loss relies on the subject’s willingness and trust in the therapy. It is ideal for a person seeking this kind of treatment to learn self-hypnosis, wherein the process and success are completely personal. Additionally, self-hypnosis costs nothing, and can be practiced and repeated as many times as needed.

WARNINGS

• Even after extensive study and practice, DO NOT attempt to uncover repressed memories in someone, treat PTSD or other trauma, or otherwise call up painful memories. Doing so can cause psychological harm. Mental health professionals are trained to deal with trauma and painful memories in a safe, therapeutic way. PLEASE, leave it to them.


• Understand that hypnotism, while a useful tool, depends on the ability of the subject. Don’t expect hypnosis to work perfectly and consistently, especially when dealing with non-narcotic pain management or other matters of health and well-being.


• NEVER risk someone’s safety (physical or psychological) for, with or during hypnotism. Protecting the subject’s well-being should always be your primary concern.


• Know your “exit strategy” before starting any hypnotic session. Your journey into the mind should always be thoroughly planned out, practiced and executed with positive intent.