Hypnotherapy has long been the subject of any number of rumors, myths and untruths. There is something very mysterious about hypnosis and perhaps that’s what leads many to make up their own truths about what they think it is. Some would even say this is a ‘mesmerizing’ topic. However it is now time to explore the myths and tall tales and lay some of the rumors to rest once and for all.
This hypnotherapy myth just refuses to die a proper death. There are those who would have you believe that it is possible to enter a deep trance from which you will not return. You should understand that this scenario will not happen, regardless of what you may read in those fiction tales.
• Hypnosis is just a method of helping you achieve a deeply relaxed state of mind. You are not going to be ‘put to sleep’ and you are always going to remain aware of what is going on around you. Your subconscious will be a protective guide during any type of hypnotherapy experience.
Myth #2: Acting the Fool
Almost everyone has seen (or heard) the rumors of people who are hypnotized at a party or dinner theater and then proceed to act in a very stupid manner. You probably know some of these tales already. A woman is hypnotized and strips off all of her clothing. A well-educated man suddenly begins to flap his arms and crow like a rooster.
It is tempting to believe those ‘comedy theater’ routines but no one is going to act out of character simply as a result of hypnotherapy.
Myth #3: All Secrets Will Be Revealed
Many people have developed an irrational fear of hypnotherapy due to the fact that they have been told all of their personal secrets will be revealed a t the ‘drop of a hat’.
• The people that do say ‘embarrassing’ things while hypnotized are not being forced or tricked into doing so. They are willing participants and generally are not telling any of those truly ‘hidden secrets’.
Myth #4: Hypnosis is a Dangerous Activity
One of the top myths surrounding hypnotherapy is that this therapeutic technique is actually a very dangerous practice. Skeptics and uninformed individuals have long sought to discredit the practice of hypnotherapy based on their own doubts and fears.
• Hypnotherapy is very safe and you will not be coerced into saying or doing something that is totally out of character-unless you really want to.
• You can always awaken on your own. Each individual can refuse to be hypnotized. No one is going to become a puppet during a hypnotherapy session.
Myth #5: Once Hypnotized-Always Hypnotized
Again the myth is far superior to the actual truth. While hypnotic suggestions can help some individuals eliminate bad habits or even help others embrace ‘self-confidence and a positive attitude, being hypnotized will not transform anyone into a ‘trance controlled zombie’.
• Hypnosis produces a natural, relaxed feeling that some people can achieve without any outside assistance.
• No one can be hypnotized unless they are willing.
• You remain conscious even though you may appear to be deep within a hypnotic state.
• Those suggestions that may be told to you under hypnosis will only work if your subconscious is in agreement.
• Even the best hypnotic suggestions are ‘time-limited’. There is no way for a person to remain under hypnosis forever.
So if you are curious, have no fear. If you want to give it a try be sure to visit a certified therapist or try one of the many hypnosis CDs available.