Hypnosis and its subset, hypnotherapy, have always been steeped in misconceptions. People either believe them to be bordering on occult, or don’t consider them to be serious scientific endeavours. Following are some of the well known misconceptions about hypnosis and the truth behind them.
Hypnosis has nothing to do with black magic of any kind. Psychology and the other sciences have a crucial role to play in the hypnotic procedure, and it is very simple to acquire and practice. Even people who have seen hypnosis on others often refuse to believe in it. They believe that the subjects who have undergone hypnosis are mentally not powerful enough to resist the influence of the practitioner. But this again is a complete fallacy. Hypnosis can in fact be successfully practised on people who are mentally strong and are trying their best to resist the spell.
That hypnosis is an altered state of consciousness is another misconception that has been circulating for quite some time now. A hypnotized individual is completely aware of his surroundings. During the hypnotic state, the subject relaxes completely and is hence able to concentrate fully on the inputs provided by the practitioner.
Some scientific findings have stated that only about 5% of humanity is suitable to be hypnotized, which is the third misconception on this list. Although, the research has some element of truth to it, what makes it empty is the fact that the scientists made use of the identical hypnosis technique for everyone. One hypnosis technique for all is not a workable solution as different people come under different personality types, and hence are responsive to different methods.
People also tend to equate hypnosis to meditation. However, interaction between the subject and the practitioner is indispensable in hypnosis, while meditation is like an engagement with the self without any communication involved. Trance too has no connection with hypnosis at all. The individual doesn’t interact to achieve a state of trance, while hypnosis is not possible without communication.
A majority of people believe that it is impossible to bring about alterations in one’s appearance and conduct through hypnosis training or hypnotherapy. Hypnosis is clearly not magic that it can transform the physique of an individual just like that. But by mentally conditioning an individual to give up addictive behaviour like overeating and constant smoking, and by raising one’s inspiration levels, hypnosis can usher in significant physical alterations in a person and ensure a healthier body.
If an individual believes in all the misconceptions that exist regarding hypnotherapy and doesn’t venture to participate in a hypnotic session, then he will himself burn the bridge to a happier and healthier life.
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