5 Common Misconceptions About Hypnotherapy

Within ourselves is an entire universe and network of information that is happening beneath the surface level of our awareness, that we are mostly unconscious of.  It’s intangible, and often goes forgotten. There is an intelligence that is governing and maintaining perfect equilibrium within our entire body, from our heartbeat, breath, and digestion, to our feelings, perceptions, beliefs and memories. The subconscious mind is our main operating system, and it holds an important key to creating deep, long lasting change, and resolving blockages, limitations, and emotional issues at a core level.

Hypnotherapy is one of the best ways of accessing the subconscious mind to create desired changes and rewire faulty programming.  Unfortunately, it is widely misunderstood due to it’s misleading portrayal in movies, television shows, and stage hypnosis.  Many fears around hypnotherapy are based on misinformation, and it’s fictional representation.  Let’s look at some of the most common misconceptions about hypnotherapy:

1: You can’t be hypnotized…

To better understand hypnosis, it’s a trance state or focused state.  It happens frequently in daily activities, like when we are totally immersed in a book or watching TV.  It also happens when we are in a flow state, completely absorbed in an activity without noticing the passing of time. Have you ever been driving, and gotten to your destination without remembering the journey there?  Your subconscious mind was driving the car.  

If you can daydream, you can experience the benefits of hypnotherapy. 

2: You won’t remember anything that happens during the session…

The mind is actually very conscious during the session, and you will be aware of what is happening. It’s possible to experience drifting in and out of an almost sleep/dream-like state. It’s completely normal for your mind to wander.  Most work is done in a medium level of trance, where you’ll be very present and aware.  You can even get great results in a light trance! 

3: Hypnosis is mind control...

During a session, you are in full control at all times, and you have the choice to accept or reject any suggestions made.  You have total control to get up and leave if you really want to!  Hypnosis is a state of focused awareness. A hypnotherapist is a guide, but it is ultimately up to you to accept the suggestions, and your participation is key in getting results. 

4: There’s no proof that hypnotherapy works...

Hypnotherapy has been studied by a variety of medical and scientific organizations, who have endorsed hypnotherapy as a valid form of treatment.  Some of the organizations include the American Psychological Association, the American Medical Association, The British Medical Association, and the British Psychological Society. 

5: You may reveal your secrets against your will...

Being in hypnosis gives you greater access to your subconscious mind, and you may learn new things about yourself or discover a deeper understanding of your patterns, feelings and actions. However, you are still conscious during the entire process, and in complete control of what you choose to say or not. Hypnosis is a state of heightened awareness, not sleep or unconsciousness. 

If you are interested in learning more about how hypnotherapy can help solve your challenges and get unstuck, book a clarity call today. 

 

Instant Self-Hypnosis by Forbes Robbins Blair

https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/finding-new-home/202102/21-myths-about-hypnosis 

https://web.wellness-institute.org/blog/hypnotherapy-six-common-myths-and-misconceptions 

https://www.hypnosisalliance.com/imdha/myths.php

Previous
Previous

Hypnotherapy and the Low-FODMAP Diet for IBS