What hypnosis really is
Hypnosis, in its true form, is nothing more than an incredibly relaxed state. It is brought about by the person being hypnotised, but is directed by the hypnotist, although self-hypnosis is easily possible and very useful as a relaxation technique.
Although there is no such thing as a 'hypnotised state', certain physical changes may be felt - these are purely due to the relaxed state and anyone who has meditated or practised yoga may be familiar with these feelings. They may include:
feeling heavy or lightness of limbs
frequent swallowing
eye flickering
increased awareness of temperature
slowing of heartbeat
One thing this state does induce is a heightened awareness and this is where its usefulness comes to the fore when used within therapy.
The hypnotic state is not the same as sleeping - anyone under hypnosis will be fully aware of what is going on all of the time. In fact, we all experience some degree of hypnosis in our everyday lives, typical examples would be day-dreaming, that light sensation just before we fall asleep, or being so engrossed in a TV programme or book that we are not conscious of someone else speaking to us.
