What is Hypnosis

A definition of hypnosis is 'a state of relaxation and concentration with a heightened sense of awareness'. Most people have seen what stage hypnotists can do under the guise of entertainment, and may possibly fear that once under hypnosis a hypnotherapist would 'make' you reveal secrets you don't want to.

Be reassured that hypnotherapy requires a much lower level of trance state than stage hypnosis in order to gain the benefit of therapy and you are fully in control at all times. Most people who have never been hypnotised before would expect to feel as though asleep and remember none of what happens. In actual fact, for effective hypnotherapy to take place you would just feel as though you are sitting in a chair, very relaxed, with your eyes closed. The state of hypnosis, which is a totally natural phenomenon, is a very pleasant and relaxing experience.

All hypnosis is self hypnosis and a hypnotherapist is merely the facilitator, who uses techniques to help clients into self hypnosis, and then to facilitate a positive change in behaviour. For this reason, no one can possibly be hypnotised against his or her will. Full co-operation is required from the client at all times. Hypnosis is a centuries old technique which is increasingly being used as an alternative to orthodox medicine, including as a valuable alternative to drugs for anaesthesia, to accelerate healing, relieve stress and control pain.