Hypnosis is a state of deep relaxation with a heightened state of awareness which is induced either by a hypnotist or the person themselves.

This state of mind, to the onlooker, resembles sleep, which is in fact how it got it's name from the Greek 'hypnos' (to sleep), but far from being asleep, the person experiencing hypnosis may feel in a state of heightened awareness, in which they still have overall control of their own mind whilst, at the same time, being more open to suggestion that may be given by the hypnotist.

It is not possible that you could be made to do anything that you did not want to do, and you would not blurt out any of your secrets. The person in hypnosis may experience their senses more, and their memory may well be enhanced. The state of hypnosis is a most pleasant and relaxing natural phenomenon, during which a person can talk quite easily. It is inconceivable that any harm could befall you.

Hypnosis is being used increasingly as an adjunct to orthodox medicine where it is providing a valuable alternative to drugs and anaesthesia to accelerate the healing process, and to relieve and help with pain. A good definition of hypnosis is a state of relaxation and concentration at one with a state of heightened awareness induced by suggestion.