Common Hypnosis Myths Busted

There are several common myths that people have about hypnosis.  Many of them are due to gossip, the media, or just common stereotypes.  This article will go over some of the most common myths to sort fact from fiction. 

Some people believe that not everyone can be hypnotized.  This is true and false.  Everyone can be hypnotized if they are willing.  You have to be open to relaxing and be able to concentrate.  Usually everyone can be hypnotized.  Some people work better with certain hypnosis methods, while others can be hypnotized by any method.  It really just depends on you and your mind. 

Another common belief that people have is that hypnotists can control your mind.  This is simply not true.  Hypnotism will allow you to do things you would not normally do because your conscious mind isn’t thinking about the embarrassment or potential problems.  Hypnotists, however, cannot get you to do things you don’t want to do.  While you may not think you are, you are completely aware of what you’re doing.  Your subconscious is still aware and will keep you out of danger or from doing something you don’t want to do. 

There are people who are actually afraid to go to hypnotists, because they think they’ll get stuck in hypnosis.  There is no possible way you’ll get stuck.  Since you’re fully aware during hypnosis, you can choose to come out of it at any time.  If you’re uncomfortable, you can let your hypnotist know.  Perhaps the worst thing that can happen to you is you’ll become so relaxed, you’ll fall asleep.  You’ll wake up in a few minutes or a couple of hours completely refreshed and relaxed.  This is definitely not something you should be afraid of. 

One major myth about hypnosis is that it has to be performed by a hypnotist.  This is completely untrue.  In fact, just about anyone can learn several forms of hypnosis. It’s also possible to perform hypnosis on your self.   Some forms of hypnosis, like conversational hypnosis, allow you to be hypnotized without even realizing it.  This means that a random person on the street could hypnotize you through a seemingly innocent conversation.  So don’t think that just because you aren’t asking to be hypnotized, you can’t be. 

There are many other common myths about hypnosis you may have.  These are just a few of the most popular ones.  Hypnosis is a very misunderstood subject.  Many people don’t take the time to research the subject for them selves.  Instead, they just believe what someone tells them or what they see in the movies.  Of course, they repeat what they heard, read, or saw to someone else, encouraging the myth even further.  Hopefully, dispelling these myths has shown that hypnosis is not scary or mystical.  It’s actually pretty simple and scientific.