Question

Take a look at table 5.5 (page 142): Hypnosis myths and facts. Have you ever undergone hypnosis? If so, what was your experience? If not, would you be willing to undergo hypnosis?

Critical thinking questions:

1. Why is it almost impossible to hypnotize an unwilling participant?

2. Describe the possible health benefits of hypnosis and meditation.

Answer 1

I’ve undergone hypnosis several times during my training on hypnotic relaxation. My experience was fantastic. Initially, my mind was following the suggestions of my mentor; gradually I entered into a trance state and was unable to follow the suggestions accurately. I was almost in a stage of sleep and was feeling relaxed. Once the session was over, I felt more energized, calm and relaxed.

Critical thinking questions:

1. Any form of hypnosis is self-hypnosis. During the process of hypnosis, the individual who wished to be hypnotized, need to willingly follow the suggestions given by the mentor. Therefore, if someone is unwilling and forcefully rejects to follow the suggestions, s/he would never be in trance state of hypnosis or can’t be hypnotized.
2. Hypnosis and meditation help people to relax. They enable a person to focus on one’s own thoughts and observe them internally. This way people become more aware of their own thoughts and eventually have control over their minds. Thus, they improve concentration and help in better execution of all activities, which in turn help in completion of life goals and better achievements in life.