Jane Robinson Associates, Hypnosis in Cyprus

Hypnosis

Hypnosis is a state of concentration. It's the extraordinary power that words have when surrounded by our complete attention.

It's natural
Hypnosis is a natural state of mind for all of us, and all about us in our daily lives the principles of hypnosis are evident, although for most of us they go unnoticed. Our very surroundings, conversations and activities constantly evoke hypnotic trance states. Spontaneous daydreamingis a natural state of hypnotic trance which is characterised by focused concentration, relaxation, lack of movement and increase in sensory reception. Examples of natural day-to-day hypnotic trance are reading a book, watching TV, driving and doing detailed work for extended periods of time. Repeated advertising on the TV and radio subjects us to many forms of hypnotic suggestion that are usually acted upon with no conscious realisation on our part. We experience approximately four hours of daydream or natural hypnotic states during our waking day, and we also experience hypnosis just before sleep and just on waking.

Hypnosis is not a sleep state. This idea has been implanted by novelists and stage hypnotists. Its origins go back to the early nineteenth century and a physician called James Braid who coined the term "hypnosis" based on the Greek word "hupnos", which means "sleep". Though I may say the word "sleep" whilst taking you into hypnosis, I do not expect you to actually slumber.

Not a control thing
Many people assume that I have control over them whilst in hypnosis; this is a misunderstanding based on stage hypnosis. The stage hypnotist bases his or her act on making you think that he or she has control over the participant by suggesting embarassing actions that are dutifully carried out. I say again, I have no control over you, and I cannot make you say or do anything that you don't want to do.

Most hypnosis is self-hypnosis. The hypnotist does not project hypnosis onto the subject. The subject decides when to accept this state - the "gift" of hypnosis always lies with the subject, not the hypnotist.

Many of us have been programmed into believing that hypnosis is either dangerous or a form of mind control. Actually, the hypnotist has no power, just skill. The power behind hypnosis lies with the subject and his or her own mind, free to release all their mental creative powers and bring them to bear with amazing results.

A useful state
The best hypnotic subjects are people who have excellent memories, can express emotions easily, and don't lose their train of thought easily. Over-critical people, who cannot visualise, are too logical, inhibited, or have poor attention spans, make the poorest subjects.

Self-hypnosis and hypnotic techniques are ways to successfully reach and put to use more of one's own mind. Hypnosis is very much like learning to ride a bike. The first problem to be overcome in learning to ride a bike is having the confidence in yourself, and convincing yourself that, although you will be only on two wheels which are only a few inches wide, with enough momentum you will stay upright. So too with hypnosis. Once the state has been achieved and experienced, it can be repeated very easily and will become easier on each future occasion.

Questions on hypnosis

Are any drugs or tablets used?
No.

Will I remember what has happened?
Yes. Most people are surprised to find that they remember all that happens during the therapy, it is a state of heightened, not diminished awareness.

So I'm not asleep then?
No. Simply very relaxed.

Are there any causes for concern?
None whatsoever. Hypnosis is a proven therapeutic aid. The only time hypnosis could prove dangerous is whilst driving or using machinery. You should not listen to a hypnotic tape under those circumstances.

Can I speak whilst in hypnosis?
Yes, and in hypno-analysis you will be encouraged to do so.

Can I be influenced to do anything against my will?
No, you cannot be forced to do anything which is contrary to your personal ethics or alien to your personality.