“Is Hypnosis Natural?”
Yes, we are all regularly in and out of hypnosis in the form a light trance many times each day. For example when we daydream, and during the periods just before and just after sleep we are in light trance. Even when we become transfixed on something such as the TV, reading, staring out over a beautiful view we are often in a light trance.
“Will l lose control – I wouldn’t want anyone controlling my mind?”
No you can’t be controlled or manipulated. In hypnosis you are still conscious and you are in control. You can still hear, see, feel, smell, taste and speak. If you are given a suggestion which pleases you and which seems emotionally and morally acceptable, you will accept it. If it isn’t appropriate for you, you will reject it. Your unconscious mind is your protector and will not accept suggestions which are inappropriate for you.
“Will I be fast asleep or out cold?”
In hypnosis you are neither asleep nor unconscious. In fact, you are fully aware and focused, and will hear and remember everything that is said. Client’s are often more aware of what is taking place than usual.
“Will I be made to do something I don’t want to do?”
You are completely in control at all times. Nobody can be hypnotised against their will, and even when hypnotised people can still reject any of the suggestions given if they are not appropriate.
“What if I can’t be hypnotised?”
Hypnosis is a natural state of mind and one that we all experience in a light trance form very often such as when we daydream, when we are lost in our own thoughts, even when we are absorbed in reading or watching TV. It is believed that 85% of people can be readily hypnotised provided they want to be and feel comfortable with the therapist they have chosen.
“Is hypnotherapy safe?”
When administered by a skilled, professionally trained hypnotherapist, hypnotherapy is completely safe and there are no harmful side effects. It is often helpful when other methods have failed and the benefits are long lasting and often permanent. However, if you have a mental health history it is essential that you consult your GP and or psychiatrist as hypnotherapy could be inappropriate for you.
In 1955 the British Medical Association endorsed the practice of hypnosis in Medical School education. It has since been used by many medical and dental practitioners. In fact I have spoken with a number of women in their seventies who, as young women had been given therapy by their doctors to help them with childbirth.