How Hypnotherapy Functions

Many of us are familiar with the classic "look into my eyes" routines seen on screen or the swinging pendulum. While such methods can be effective, they don’t reflect my personal experiences. Hypnotherapy creates a trance-like state similar to guided meditation—a gentle journey where the participant listens in a unique way, allowing positive affirmations to resonate.

Daily, we slip in and out of trance states without even realizing it. Consider driving: how often do you find yourself on autopilot, arriving at your destination without recalling the journey? That’s a trance in action. If a car suddenly halts in front of you, your focus sharpens immediately, demonstrating that you can’t get stuck in a trance as some films suggest; you are always aware of your surroundings.

Now, about those individuals who cluck like chickens on stage—do they really lack awareness? Stage hypnosis operates differently. Initially, hypnotists engage the audience with suggestibility exercises, like rubbing their palms together to create a perceived energy ball. This helps identify who is more likely to participate.

One of my first trainers was well-known for his hypnosis shows. Towards the end of our extensive training, he invited volunteers to take part in a demonstration. This kind of hypnosis relies on the brain becoming momentarily confused. Rapid induction techniques, such as sensory suggestions and quick-fire commands, can disorient participants, prompting them to comply with simple requests, such as falling asleep.

This tactic mirrors how politicians often frame their speeches: overwhelming you with information, then delivering a straightforward statement that’s easier to grasp.

During my training, the hypnotist had participants see others as naked or forget their own names, creating an amusing spectacle. Observing the show revealed who genuinely appeared entranced and who was merely playing along. After the act, one participant mentioned feeling like he was in a trance briefly, but the reason he didn’t stop was that he didn’t want to disappoint the hypnotist.

This phenomenon sheds light on why individuals continue with the act, often claiming later that they were unaware of their actions. Yet, achieving the first ‘fall’ among participants can be a challenge.

My trainer recounted a story about a colleague performing in tougher venues. During a show, the hypnotist dropped something, and while picking it up, he whispered to a participant that he’d receive £50 if he pretended to be hypnotized. The participant complied, leading the rest to follow suit. After the show, the hypnotist reassured the audience that they wouldn’t suffer any adverse effects, though some might entertain bizarre thoughts about owing money.

Why I Stepped Away from Hypnotherapy

Despite my appreciation for hypnotherapy, I eventually recognized a pattern among my clients: they often attributed their successes to me or the process itself. They believed it was the hypnotism that curbed their overeating, drinking, or smoking, rather than their own inner thought processes.

During our sessions, I consistently emphasized that their impulses originated from within, not from external triggers like cake, wine, or cigarettes. They overlooked the transformative power of altering their mindset regarding these temptations. My sessions were designed to reinforce these messages and instill a sense of empowerment, yet many remained convinced that I was the catalyst for their changes.

While I wholeheartedly support hypnotherapy as a beneficial tool for change, I want those I work with to realize that true transformation is more accessible than they believe. It’s primarily about mindset. There’s no need to fixate on my gaze.

This video discusses why some individuals feel hypnosis doesn't work, exploring common misconceptions and providing clarity on the practice of hypnotherapy.

In this video, the speaker shares their personal journey of quitting hypnotherapy, discussing the challenges faced and insights gained along the way.