Hypnosis can be described as an intense state of focus, in which an individual becomes highly responsive to suggestion. Though often surrounded by an aura of mystery, hypnosis is actually a natural process that we each experience several times daily. It happens whenever your thoughts converge on a single idea, to the exclusion of all others. Commonly known as a trance, this state of mind creates the ideal environment for learning. Hypnotic subjects temporarily suspend disbelief, so that ideas and concepts travel directly into the subconscious mind. For this reason, hypnosis can be used effectively to arrest unwanted behaviors, enhance perspective and align intention with conduct.
Self-Hypnosis
Despite popular belief, all hypnosis is really self-hypnosis (also called auto-suggestion). Trance is a very personal experience. It involves perceptual shifts that no person can effect from the outside. Emile Coue, iconic healer and hypnosis pioneer, is quoted as saying, "You have in yourself the instrument of your cure." A trained hypnotist is merely aware of strategies by which one may reach this state intentionally. The process can, however, be learned. Self-hypnosis is a simple yet powerful means of achieving self-mastery and producing positive change.
Pre-Trance
Before initiating a self-hypnosis session, you will need to prime the mind for response. First, it's important to have a clear outcome in mind. Get a distinct representation of exactly what it is you want to achieve, and how your life will change upon attainment of this goal. Next, place yourself in a mindset of positive expectation. No matter how well you execute the strategy, no amount of suggestion will override an underlying presumption of failure. Lastly, be consistent. Suggestions may take after one session; however, more often than not the process must be repeated until the mind fully grabs hold of the new concepts. In the beginning, a habitual idea or behavior may simply pop clearly into awareness, giving you a choice of how to continue. When the changes you want to occur begin happening without conscious effort, they have become a part of you.
3-2-1 Induction
This is a technique made popular by world-renowned hypnotist Betty Erickson. Sit in a comfortable position, with both feet on the floor, arms resting at your sides. Breathe fully, slowly and deliberately.
Mentally declare your intended outcome for this session. For instance, if your goal is to gain confidence, say something along the lines of "I am entering the state of trance for the purpose of achieving a tremendous sense of inner strength and determination. Right now, my unconscious mind is preparing to adsorb the ideas and suggestions I present fully, so that the changes I desire manifest quickly and effortlessly." Give yourself a detailed account of what will happen after the session. For example, "In 20 minutes, I will emerge from the hypnotic state feeling empowered and renewed. I will have the energy, confidence and strength to master whatever I choose."
You're going to now enter trance by switching between sensory channels. Become aware of three things within your visual field; perhaps shadows on the wall, shapes in the room and the color of the carpet. Draw your attention next to three sounds, such as the noise from a fan, the hum of any electric equipment, even the sound of your own breathing. Likewise, notice three sensations, such as the temperature of air in the room, the weight of clothes against your skin, and your body pressing against the chair. Repeat this process with two objects from each channel, and then one. Move your attention slowly and deliberately, taking a moment to really focus on the current item in your awareness.
Allow your eyes to close. Now imagine a picture, then a sound, then a sensation. Reverse the previous process, creating two internal images, sounds and sensations, then three. By now you will be in a deep state of trance. Just allow your attention to drift freely, trusting that your unconscious is carrying out your instructions at a deep level. Simply emerge whenever the time feels right for you. Often, your mind will bring you out exactly when you anticipated.
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