Hypnosis is a state of consciousness that is obtained through hypnotism. The state is characterized by reaching a high concentration, a low awareness of the environment and a great capacity to respond to external suggestions.

To achieve the hypnotic state, a series of instructions must be followed that can be generated by an external person, known as a hypnotist, or they can be self-administered.

Hypnosis is widely used for therapeutic purposes. Still, it is one of the most controversial and least understood psychological treatment methods.

The myths surrounding hypnosis

The hypnotic induction is surrounded by myths and confusions that are mainly due to the ideas that society created about hypnosis and how this is represented in the communications media such as cinema, television and shows.

In particular, the hypnosis shows that take place in theaters are theatrical performances that are meant to entertain. As in movies, reality is altered to entertain and excite.

However, hypnosis is a truly psychological phenomenon that has several applications at the therapeutic level.

Hypnosis: a therapeutic method

During hypnosis the individuals are not asleep, on the contrary, they are more awake and attentive than normally. This is because the decrease in peripheral consciousness does not allow the brain to be distracted or influenced by the attitude or decision of the individual.

For this reason, every individual subjected to hypnosis responds to the suggestions that are presented. In fact, it has been shown that during hypnosis people are more willing to suggest than in their most natural state.

For this reason, during the treatment the hypnotist makes positive suggestions to the person, in order that its effect lasts until after hypnosis. The reason why suggestions are used instead of more direct comments, is because in the state of hypnosis people seem to respond better to this kind of communication.

Although the technique is simple, not all people are susceptible to hypnosis. And above all, for hypnosis to be successful, the person must be totally willing and willing to participate in the process. So, contrary to what is usually believed, when a person is hypnotized, they are in total control over themselves and their actions. I mean, I would not do something that I would normally consider inappropriate.