Despite its widespread
acceptance as an important tool in physical and mental healing and
well being, there are still many myths about the subject that often
discourages people from getting treatment that could help them. Here are
a few of the most common ones.
- The weak minded are the easiest to hypnotize: Not only is this not true, the converse is where the reality lies. Generally speaking, people with high levels of intelligence and self-control are usually more easily hypnotized. This is because entering a hypnotic state requires concentration, which is more difficult for the weak minded. Of course, this is a generalized statement. Being difficult to hypnotize does not mean that a person is weak minded. Research shows that about 30% of adults are fairly resistant to hypnosis.
- Being hypnotized is being helpless: This is also false. A persons inhibitions are reduced while under hypnosis and they are more open to suggestion. However, they remain in touch with and are bound by their moral beliefs and standards of behavior.
- Being hypnotized is like being asleep: Although people under hypnosis may appear to be relaxed with closed eyes, they are not asleep. They are in a state of higher concentration and the brain wave patterns show that they are alert, awake and responsive.
- Hypnotism works miracles in minutes: This is a myth born out of stage hypnosis acts which are intended to be dramatic. The truth is that a professional hypnotherapist will often need multiple sessions with a patient to achieve the desired results. Professionals know that lasting change does not occur overnight and trying to do it that way never produces good results.
- Hypnotists are strange people: This too is a myth from the stage and TV shows. Strange lighting, weird noises, outlandish clothing and odd makeup are all part of a show. A real hypnotherapist does not need to put on a show and will dress and appear to be normal in every way.
- A person cannot lie while hypnotized: As already said, a person’s moral or immoral sensibilities remain in force while under hypnosis. This means that if the truth is to be hidden, the person can lie as fluently as if he or she were not hypnotized.
- Being hypnotized is unusual: Almost everyone has been in a mild state of hypnosis at some time or another. For example, many find that going for a long drive helps them to think and solve problems. That is because after a time the mind becomes dissociated from the physical environment similar to being in a state of hypnosis. The mechanical action of controlling the car continues but the conscious mind is free to expand its boundaries and find solutions.
If you want to know if hypnotism can help you overcome the problems you face or if it can improve the quality of your life, consult a professional hypnotherapist. She will, after discussing your case, tell you if being hypnotized will help you and if so, how and why it will work. Forget the myths and remember that you are consulting a serious professional who will use the science of hypnotism to help you.
