As a hypnotherapist in Kent, I get asked a lot of questions about hypnosis and hypnotherapy. People are often curious about what it really is, how it feels, and whether it’s something anyone can experience. Today, let’s start with the big one: what is hypnosis?
What is hypnosis?
After facilitating hundreds of sessions, the explanation that resonates most with me is this: a natural, relaxed state of focused attention on one idea or concept, to the exclusion of everything else.
Everyday life examples of trance states
You’ve likely experienced this state without realising:
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Driving on the motorway for 30 minutes, but not remembering the details of the journey.
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Watching a film so intently that you don’t notice someone talking to you.
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That dreamy state just before sleep, or the moments right after waking up.
These everyday experiences show us how this process works in daily life.
Is it something done to you?
Not at all. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. A hypnotherapist is there to guide, but you’re the one who chooses to enter that state. This means the vast majority of people can experience it easily.
What does hypnosis feel like?
Experiences vary from person to person, but common sensations include:
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Deep relaxation and comfort (so relaxed you could move, but don’t feel the need).
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Attention drifting in and out.
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A sense of time distortion — minutes can feel like hours, or the other way round.
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Slower, steadier breathing.
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A calm, grounded feeling afterwards.
If you’re still curious about what it is, the simplest answer is that it’s a natural state you already know.
What’s next?
Explore these other posts:
If you’d like to learn more:
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Visit my Hypnotherapy Services page.
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See my Google Business Profile.
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Or follow my Facebook page.
