How hypnosis works
Typical misconceptions about hypnosis include
Misconception 1: Hypnosis as Mind Control
This is not true. At every step of hypnosis, you remain aware and alert. You hear the voices and sounds around you, including heightened sensitivity to birds outside. You judge whether you like the suggestions and decide whether to continue with hypnosis or to alert yourself.
Misconception 2: The Hypnotist Uses Influence, Black Magic, or Other Means to Control the Mind and Implant Thoughts
This is not true. Although stage hypnosis may appear as if the hypnotist is controlling people and their actions, psychological experiments have shown that participants willingly perform interesting acts on stage. They are often eager to do things they would not normally do and use the permission given to let their guards down. At any point during the stage performance, they can choose to disengage. Stage hypnosis is both similar to and somewhat different from therapy. In both contexts, trust and cooperation are essential.
Misconception 3: Hypnosis is Spiritual and Forbidden to Christians
This is a misunderstanding. Hypnosis is a psychological technique, not a spiritual or religious practice. It is a tool used to access focused attention and promote relaxation, healing, or behavior change. Hypnosis itself carries no inherent spiritual or moral beliefs. I have witnessed people in trance during Charismatic and Pentecostal church services for decades. Even Eastern or Catholic spirituality and meditation approach what we call “hypnosis” — a state of focused attention and relaxed mind. Whether you call it meditation, prayer, spiritual experience, or hypnosis, it is a pleasant state with healing potential that works from within. I like to call it God’s design in the human experience.