What is hypnosis?
 

As stated previously this is a totally natural state of mind, similar to that which we each experience every day. For example driving for long distances and not recalling the route taken, soaking in a warm bath or just drifting off to sleep. Knowing that you could open your eyes at any time but just feeling too relaxed and comfortable to bother.
 

How does hypnosis work?
 

Our minds work on two levels, the conscious and the unconscious. We make decisions, think and act with our conscious mind. The unconscious mind controls our habits and emotions. In hypnosis a skilled practitioner communicates directly with the unconscious mind and places new instruction there which will have a strong effect when you are awake again, bringing the changes you require.
 

How long is a session?
 

Most sessions last 60 minutes. A stop smoking session around 90 minutes.
 

Is Hypnosis dangerous?
 

As discussed earlier, hypnotic trance can be compared to natural, everyday trance. So long as hypnosis is used by a fully trained and responsible professional there should be no concerns regarding safety.
 

Can I get stuck in trance?
 

No. No one has ever been ‘stuck’ in trance. You would wake up naturally if unprompted or if you were tired; you may fall asleep and awaken as normal.
 

Will I remember everything?
 

Just as our memory works out of trance you will remember most, if not all that is said.
 

Will I lose control?
 

During hypnosis you are fully aware, and fully in control. For example, if during a hypnosis session you heard a fire alarm, you would open your eyes and return to ‘normal’ without any prompting.
 

Can I be made to do something against my will?         
 

Absolutely not. Your mind is very protective and so you will not accept any suggestions that go against your morals or beliefs. Stage hypnotists seem to make people do strange things while hypnotised, but the truth is that these people are doing these things because they have a desire to be outrageous (generally combined with alcohol).
 

What if I can’t be hypnotised?
 

Most people are hypnotisable to some degree as long as they want to be. It is estimated that 30% of people will experience a light trance, 50% will experience a medium trance and 20% will experience a deep trance.