What Is Hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a focused state of attention, heightened suggestibility, and deep relaxation. It’s not sleep, unconsciousness, or surrender of control. Instead, during hypnosis, people enter a state similar to daydreaming or deep concentration—still aware of their surroundings but more open to suggestion. In clinical settings, this is referred to as hypnotherapy and is typically used alongside other psychological treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Hypnotherapy helps patients modify behavior, reduce stress, manage pain, and address phobias or addiction.
How Hypnosis Works
Hypnosis works by altering the way the brain processes information. Studies using functional MRI scans show that during hypnosis, brain activity shifts in regions involved in attention, consciousness, and the processing of sensations. One key area affected is the anterior cingulate cortex, which plays a role in error detection and emotional regulation. Hypnosis seems to reduce the brain’s critical response to suggestions, making a person more receptive to new ideas or behavioral shifts. This altered state can enhance focus on internal thoughts and diminish awareness of external distractions or automatic responses.
Myths vs. Reality
Myth 1: Hypnosis is mind control. Reality: You cannot be hypnotized against your will. Hypnosis requires cooperation and trust. People under hypnosis won’t do anything that violates their moral or ethical beliefs.
Myth 2: Only gullible people can be hypnotized. Reality: Hypnotizability varies, but around 10-15% of people are highly responsive, while about 70% fall in the medium range. Intelligence or personality doesn’t dictate susceptibility.
Myth 3: You can get stuck in hypnosis. Reality: No one has ever been stuck in a hypnotic state. If left alone, a person would either return to normal awareness or fall asleep and wake up naturally.
Success Statistics
Success rates vary depending on the condition and the individual’s responsiveness to hypnosis. Here are a few key findings:
- A 2000 study in International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis showed that 81% of participants quit smoking after a hypnosis session, though results depend heavily on technique and follow-up support.
- The Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology reported that hypnosis can reduce pain by over 40% in some chronic conditions.
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- 2005 Cochrane Review found that hypnosis may significantly improve outcomes in managing IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), with long-term symptom relief in 70% of cases.
Hypnosis is not a magic trick but when administered by a professional like Nicolas Aujula, it can be a powerful therapeutic aid. The real magic lies in the brain’s ability to change itself—hypnosis simply opens the door
