what is hypnosis?

The natural state of hypnosis has been recognised throughout history, and indeed, most of us have experienced this pleasant state on many occassions, but we may have described it as day-dreaming or operating on autopilot.  The hypnotic state can be induced in a willing volunteer (e.g. a client) by a trained and competent hypnotherapist.  The induction can be of variable length (2 to 20 minutes or more) but will focus on creating images and feelings of relaxation within the client until a suitable state of physical and mental relaxation is reached.  It is possible for people to achieve very deep (somnambulistic) states of relaxation, however, for effective hypnotherapy a light to medium trance is preferable.  This means that the client declines to show any conscious interest in what the hypnotherapist is saying and trusts that the treatment will be positive and supportive.  It also means that the client can be fully conscious if the situation demands (e.g. a fire alarm, or a suggestion from the therapist which is unacceptable).  On emerging from the state of hypnosis most people report feelings of deep relaxation as though they have had a light, but nourishing, sleep.  There are no harmful side-effects from being in an hypnotic trance.  In fact, when uncovering painful memories the hypnotherapist will suggest to the client that they can choose to forget what they've remembered on waking.  Although it is possible to self-hypnotise (good for overcoming insomnia and reinforcing positive suggestions), the therapeutic environment centres on the relationship between therapist and client, the rapport they develop, and the trust they share.  There is a marked difference between the trance-induction and the trance states attained during stage hypnosis for entertainment and that used for therapy.  Also a professional hypnotherapist will not attempt to engage a client in humiliating activities as are frequently seen during hypnotist stage shows.