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Hypnosis, hypnotherapy, guided imagery, visualization, trance...

Hypnosis can seem a mysterious and strange phenomenon, but the truth is you experience this phenomenon every day. Research enough on the internet, or read enough in books, and you will find a variety of explanations about hypnosis - but most experts agree that in this age of 'modern hypnosis', we are really just talking about using how the mind already works to our advantage.

People experience varying levels of trance throughout a normal day - any time you 'zone out' on the TV, or lose track of time while working or playing on the computer. If you've ever missed your exit off the highway because some part of your mind was off in 'wander' land...or arrived at your destination without a clear memory of how you got there, than you have experienced trance. Hypnotherapy is simply a means of using the 'trance' state - a natural and EASY mental state to achieve - for directed purpose. Sometimes that purpose is for health and well-being - such as pain management, releasing phobias and anxieties, or changing unhealthy habits. Other times that purpose may be creating a deeper connection with a loved one, or becoming more confident at work. The applications of hypnotic tools are endless - because it is all about applying the power of your subconscious mind in an effective way.

Visit the FAQ page to answer some common questions about hypnosis - such as "Can anyone be hypnotized?".

There are myths about hypnosis, and old beliefs that we have moved past. For instance:

• Hypnosis Myth #1
  The subject is asleep or unaware during hypnosis.
  FACT - The subject will be completely aware - often MORE aware during hypnosis - awake and participatory.
• Hypnosis Myth #2
  The hypnotist is in total control and can make the subject do anything.
  FACT - The subject is in complete control and at choice at all times. For a hypnotic suggestion to be effective, the subject must allow and accept the suggestion. The subject can never be made to do anything, especially anything that goes against their moral code or values.
• Hypnosis Myth #3
  Some people cannot 'be hypnotized'.
  FACT - Hypnosis is a natural state into which people 'drift' numerous times throughout the day. Learning to go into this state intentionally is simply a matter of guidance, experience, and practice, and happens without effort for most people.
• Hypnosis Myth #4
  The subject can get stuck or lose control in hypnosis.
  FACT - The subject is in control of the session, and able to interrupt hypnosis at ANY time if they wish - simply by choosing.

Allow yourself to entertain the possibility that you have been hypnotized. Think about all of the things we have been 'programmed' to believe. Suggestions we 'took on' about who we are, or who we 'should' be from parents, teachers, kids at school. They were powerful hypnotists during a time in most people's lives when our minds were 'wide open', and suggestions easily accepted. Most people developed filters and 'checks and balances' as they grew up. To achieve the ability to accept suggestions as readily as we did when we were children, there are multiple possibilities.

1. The suggestion is formed in such a way that it already matches your current filters, and your mind allows it.
2. You agree to drop your filters and accept suggestions
3. You choose to relax your mind and allow suggestions to take hold.

Any of these options CAN happen in day to day life. Hypnosis simply gives one a tool through which you can access your subconscious mind and allow suggestions to be accepted on purpose.