What is Hypnosis ?

A More Detailed Explanation

Definitions and Descriptions of Hypnosis.

Hypnosis is a

‘naturally occurring, highly resourceful, dreamlike state,’

similar to drifting into sleep.

(‘Hypnos’ is Greek for ‘sleep.’)

The name was originally coined, circa 1840, by Dr James Braid, a Scottish physician.

Individuals vary in their descriptions of this

‘state of introspection’ or ‘trance’

- of ‘directed attention’ or ‘inner focus.’

Hypnosis is, however, most frequently experienced,

as ‘a state of deep relaxation’ or ‘peaceful tranquillity’;

accompanied by ‘a sense of heightened awareness’.

Hypnosis has been clinically defined as:-

‘an altered state of consciousness’

– and the emphasis here,

is that one ‘remains fully conscious’ during hypnosis,

albeit in a different mode to normal waking alertness.

A person in hypnosis is not, therefore, ‘asleep’,

nor are they ‘unconscious’;

indeed, they are often more aware of what is taking place than usual.

‘Hypnosis is a naturally occurring form of relaxation

and inner concentration,

accompanied by a state of heightened awareness.’