Information and Frequently Asked Questions
about Clinical Hypnosis in Ireland

  Hypnosis is not a therapy in itself, although the effects of simply being in hypnosis are very beneficial - physical relaxation and lowered stress levels.

  Being in a state of hypnosis enables a person to narrow their attention and focus more closely on what the hypnotist is suggesting to them. Only those suggestions which are accepted by the person's subconscious mind are acted upon, any suggestion which is not in their best interests are simply ignored.

  When practiced regularly, self-hypnosis is a very useful way to lower stress levels, increase relaxation and re-programme your subconscious mind with positive thoughts, feelings and attitudes. Please see our articles and resources page to learn more about self-hypnosis and how you can learn this useful skill.

  Here are some frequently asked questions about hypnosis, and please write and ask us if you have any further questions, :

•What is Hypnosis?
Unlike the television or Hollywood version, hypnosis is simply a state of deep physical relaxation, accompanied by mental clarity and focus. In this state the critical conscious mind is set aside and the subconscious mind can be directly communicated with, bringing about the desired change. Hypnosis is a natural power for good, and it works.

•Can anyone be hypnotised?
Yes, 95% of the population can be hypnotised and the benefits of hypnosis do not depend on the depth of trance, excellent benefits can be obtained even from a very light depth of hypnosis. In fact, most people experience hypnosis several times during the day. Daydreaming is a form of hypnosis, so is becoming so engrossed in a good book or film that we temporarily lose touch with our surroundings. The state experienced just as we enter and leave steep every night is also hypnosis.

•What does hypnosis feel like?
You will be aware of what is going on during the trance and will not be asleep. You will, however, be likely to feel more relaxed than ever before. A feeling of peace, serenity and well being generally accompany this relaxation. There is no such thing as an accepted "hypnotised feeling" and everybody experiences different physical sensations.

•Can I be made to do something against my will?
Absolutely not! There is an inherent safeguard in hypnosis. Anything suggested to you in hypnosis that is against your morals, beliefs, religion, ethics, wants or desires will simply be rejected by you and your subconscious mind. It is impossible for you to be made to do anything against your will.

•What about those stage shows then?
Successful stage hypnosis relies on willing volunteers. Those people have a desire to join in the show and perform. Hypnosis merely helps them to lift the inhibitions that they may, ordinarily, have against performing in public.

•Will I remember what is said or done, after I come out of hypnosis?
Hypnosis is not an unconscious state, so you be aware of and will remember what is being said and done. If you have no apparent memory of what is said or done, this is likely to be because you were drifting and daydreaming in your own pleasant thoughts during that part. Generally, with gentle prodding, you will fully remember everything.

•Am I giving up control during Hypnosis?
No! You will be in such complete control during the entire session that if anything is said or done that you disagree with, or that you feel is in bad taste, you can simply open your eyes and leave the room. No one can control your mind, except you.

•Can only 'weak-minded' people be hypnotised?
On the contrary, whilst everybody can be hypnotised to some degree, those who respond better are people with strong and active minds, capable of imagination and mental dexterity. Those that refuse to be hypnotised, are generally exhibiting either a lack of understanding of the subject entirely, 'weakness' in the form of inflexibility or are actively resisting the process.

•Does Hypnosis wear off?
The state of hypnosis, being a relaxed 'Day Dream' state, leaves you when either you or the therapist ends the session. However the results of your hypnotic session will have been accepted by your inner mind and the effects will become stronger. This is because changes brought about under hypnosis, i.e. stopping smoking, lowering anxiety, weight loss, etc, are self-rewarding.

•Are there any harmful after effects?
Absolutely not. There is not one case on record of anyone being harmed because of, or through, hypnosis. After the session, most people feel relaxed and mellow but in complete control of all of their faculties and able to perform any task or duty such as driving or working. Many people experience a very pleasant energy increase after the session.

•Why is Hypnosis sometimes linked to witchcraft and fortune telling?
Television and Hollywood are mostly responsible for this. There is nothing magical, mystical or mysterious about hypnosis, and we actively disassociate ourselves from those that would have you believe otherwise.

•How do I know my hypnotist has been properly trained?
You can be assured that any hypnotherapist trained with the Institute of Clinical Hypnotherapy and Psychotherapy (ICHP) in Ireland has attained both their Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Hypnotherapy. In addition they are members in good standing of the ICHP and have agreed to abide by their Code of Conduct and Ethics.

Grab this swicki from eurekster.com