ABOUT HYPNOSIS

ABOUT HYPNOSIS

What is hypnosis?
First let’s clarify what hypnosis is not. One does not lose consciousness or relinquish control when hypnotized. Instead, the hypnotic state is one of focused awareness and attention. Hypnosis is actually a state of mind that everyone frequently experiences. It often occurs when one is in a relaxed and focused frame of mind. For example, we experience spontaneous states of hypnosis while day dreaming, being totally engrossed in watching a movie or even driving.

Highway hypnosis happens when we are traveling a familiar route, or driving on a long stretch of road, and our mind is focusing on something else. All of a sudden we snap back into normal consciousness and wonder where we are. “Did I miss my exit?” We don’t remember the distance we’ve traveled or the scenery we’ve passed. But we were able to return to a normal state of mind easily, at any time.

The Conscious and Subconscious Minds
Hypnosis works primarily with the subconscious mind.

The conscious mind can hold only a small amount of information at one time, but the capacity of the subconscious mind appears to be limitless. It contains all that makes you who you are as an individual and holds all of your experiences, habits, beliefs, knowledge, etc.

Both the conscious and subconscious minds have a protective function that keeps us from constantly changing our basic beliefs and frame of reference whenever we encounter new information. Without this protective function we would live in a constant state of confusion. The conscious mind, which is ruled by logic and reason, has the strongest protective function. When engaging the subconscious mind, it is easier to bypass this barrier and change ingrained habits and beliefs that are no longer serving us. Through the use of hypnotic techniques, we enable the subconscious mind to become more suggestible and open to change.

Is hypnosis safe?
It is completely safe. Some people think you can get “stuck” in the hypnotic state, but this is impossible. One can end a hypnotic session at any time, for any reason, simple by deciding to do so. As explained earlier, one is fully conscious, aware and in control when hypnotized.

Can the hypnotist make me do something I don’t want to do?
No, forget what you have seen in the movies or on TV. Any time you feel uncomfortable you can come out of the hypnotic state. In hypnotherapy, the purpose is to help you and make you feel better. This is not stage hypnosis.

How can I decide if hypnotherapy is right for me?
 You are welcome to schedule a free half-hour phone session where we can discuss hypnosis in more depth, answer any questions you may have and talk about your needs and goals.

How many sessions would be needed?
Generally four – five sessions are sufficient. However, each individual is different, and it could take more or fewer sessions, depending on the issue.


Click here to read an interview with Cynthia in Bend Lifestyle magazine.

Listen to an interview about hypnosis with Cynthia featured on CUTV News Radio.

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