Myth: I can be hypnotized to do things against my will.
A hypnosis practitioner acts simply as a guide and doesn’t “make” an individual do anything while under hypnosis that they don’t want to do. The individual is completely aware of everything going on during the entire process. As the person being hypnotized, they have the complete power to reject any suggestions that the hypnotist says to them. For hypnosis to really work, you must be an active and willing participant and therefore, you do not lose control of yourself.
Myth: I can’t believe in hypnosis and my religion.
Hypnosis is not in any way associated with religion. While many religions have openly rejected the idea of hypnosis in the past, today it is widely accepted as a way to heal and help people. There is nothing spiritual happening one way or another when you are under hypnosis, and it’s only using a tool your creator gave you: your brain. Unless your religion tells you that you can’t use your brain to better yourself, then any religious person that tells you hypnosis is wrong is doing so from a place of misunderstanding.
Myth: I won’t remember anything that happened during the hypnosis.
Everything that happens under hypnosis is recallable in your memory. A good hypnotist will actually strengthen your memory of the hypnosis session to increase the likelihood of you remembering as many details as possible. Whether you remember all details or not, though, it doesn’t make the session any less effective.
In all, hypnosis is a great benefit for those who are looking for another method of healing and overcoming obstacles that they may not have experienced before. Before making assumptions about hypnosis, it’s important to be educated and well-informed to eliminate all confusion. That’s the tea.
—monica bey
For more great tips, advice and answers to life’s burning questions from Monica Bey, go to rollingout.com/monicabey, and be sure to check out her weekly Ask Monica segment on Wednesdays at 2 p.m. on rolling out’s Facebook page.
