Dispelling Myths about Hypnosis

Between the charlatan hypnotists of the past and the media of today most people seem to have a grand misconception of hypnosis. There are many myths and misnomers being passed around about hypnosis.  Here are some of those ideas and myths dispelled.

We can compare the modern stage hypnotist to the modern magician.  Hypnosis was misunderstood early in it's history much the same as early magicians and conjurors were thought to have supernatural powers.  Today we know that magicians perform "illusions" which can be logically explained though they appear to be supernatural.  A hypnotist can in fact appear to have supernatural powers yet what he does can be taught and is explainable in modern psychology. 

Hypnosis is not supernatural, nor is it mind-control.  It is rarely portrayed realistically in the movies. One cannot be made to do anything that is against their will while under hypnosis. In other words, you cannot be made to do anything that is against your morals, beliefs, ethics or conscious desires.

One maintains control while under hypnosis.  One does not go unconscious or into a zombie-like state.

One cannot be made to tell secrets or do anything they don't want to do.

A hypnotist does not have magical powers.

Hypnotism is not satanic or of the occult.  It is part of the scientific field of professional medicine known as Psychology.  It is inline with the doctrine of all major religions, is sanctioned by the Catholic Church and approved by the American Medical Association.

Smart people make the best hypnosis subjects.  Some people believe that only the weak minded or gullible can be hypnotized.  The opposite is actually true.  The people who are best to hypnotize are those who have a great imagination.  The truth is that everyone can be hypnotized.

People under hypnosis are actually aware.  Though it resembles sleep it is not sleep. Many people believe that when they are hypnotized they will not be aware of anything that is happening around them.  This is untrue.  One must be able to hear the voice of the hypnotist and pay attention to be able to respond to the suggestions.

Hypnosis is scientifically proven safe.