I've always wanted to be hypnotized. When I was about twelve I had a book about hypnotism. In this book there were instructions about how to hypnotize oneself. I was never able to accomplish it. At least not that I know of. I've been been in hypnotic situations, but I don't think I've ever been to the point of auto-suggestion. Still, I'd like to be hypnotized to see what it is like.
Have you ever been hypnotized? Have you ever tried to hypnotize yourself? Do you believe that hypnotism actually works?
Hey Lee! I've read that self hypnosis happens all the time without us even being aware of it. Like when you drive home from work on auto pilot, and can't really remember the details of your drive...apparently that's because you were in a hypnotic state. I don't know...I've never been hypnotised either. At least not in the generally accepted sense of the word.
ReplyDeleteI think it only works if you want it to and believe it will. I went to see a hypnotist show at my college once and he attempted to mass hypnotize the audience and I remember the inability to let go of my own control and do what so many of my peers were doing (something stupid like clasping our hands together in front of us). I fought hard and beat it. He had some volunteers come up on stage and he didn't embarrass them or anything, but they all went right out.
ReplyDeleteI participated in a psychology test when I was in college where I was hypnotized twice, about a week apart. From what they explained at the beginning, they were trying to see what the more effective "script" was. At the end of each session, they asked us what the experience was like. Maybe a week after that, they asked us to come back and tell which one was more effective. For me, the first time was more effective, because I didn't know what to expect, and it was very relaxing. It ruined the experience the second time, because I was anticipating an experience similar to the one I had already had, and it wasn't as intense.
ReplyDeleteI had a book when I was in high school about self-hypnosis, but was never able to do it myself. However, I learned to meditate, and that was a similar experience. Likewise, I've used recordings by a company called Brain Sync that use binaural beats to simulate different brain waves (alpha, beta, gamma, delta, and theta), and the experience was also similar. In fact, I should get back to using those...
John Holton
The Sound Of One Hand Typing
I have been what I would term hypnotized while driving, especially through the desert in the summer heat.
ReplyDeleteI am not sure I believe someone can hypnotize me to the point I would do what they suggest.
That said, I am not going to suggest it is not possible. There are a few examples of things I am somewhat close-minded about that I will concede that my unwillingness to accept the possibility is a limiting factor.
Or maybe someone hypnotized me into saying that.
Eva-- The driving example you cite probably is similar in principle to hypnotism, but I don't think it would necessarily qualify as auto-suggestion or some kind of outside mental control.
ReplyDeleteJoJo-- I've heard this from other sources. The subject must me willing and receptive to the experience.
John-- I recall seeing some kind of machines (or hearing about them) back in the 70's where the subject could control brain waves like you describe. I never paid that much attention to them and had forgotten about this until reading your comment.
Larry-- A hypnotic type state is probably different than the state where someone can make suggestions to which you would comply. And I do think you have to be willing to cede control of your mind to the hypnotist. They say that no one can make you do what you don't want to do or are unconvinced is appropriate for you to do.
Lee