What is Hypnosis? Hypnosis is a state of focused attention. Hypnosis is a state during which the subconscious mind is open to suggestion to create positive change - a state of heightened suggestibility, so to speak. The word "hypnosis" has been given a negative connotation by some in the entertainment industry. No one can hypnotise anyone into doing anything that he or she does not want to do. No one can hypnotise anyone into doing anything that is against his or her morals or ethics. The one being hypnotised is always in control of his/her own mind, and will take suggestions only if he or she chooses to do so. Hypnosis is a means of moving into a perfectly natural state of mind that people actually move in and out of several times a day. Everyone has experienced this trance like state, although they may not have called it hypnosis. We all go in and out of different levels of consciousness all day. Daydreaming, reading, driving are all examples of every day tasks when we may enter an Altered state of awareness. Have you ever had the experience of driving along the motorway and suddenly realised that you passed your exit several miles back? Or have you ever been so caught up in a TV Programme, a book, film or computer game that you've lost track of time, or not realised that someone has been talking to you? When one is in a state of hypnosis, they are still very much of aware of their surroundings and of what is going on. When we are hypnotised, WE are in control of our own mind. The one being hypnotised is always in control and will take suggestions only if he or she chooses to do so. How does it feel To Be Hypnotised? Being in hypnosis is an indistinct thing. Although you realise that you have a special level of relaxation, you are also aware of everything around you and often feel that you aren’t in a trance. Often it feels like you are dozing off to sleep at night. It’s kind of a half-awake – half-asleep feeling. Some people feel heaviness in their limbs, some a tingling feeling. But all in all there is never a feeling that you are not there or not aware. Normally you will focus in on the hypnotist’s words leaving other things to blend into the background. It feels great! Many people report having never experienced being that relaxed in their lives. What can hypnotherapy be used for? Some of the main benefits of hypnotherapy can be classed as follows (there are many more): Stopping Habits Stop smoking cigarettes.  Overcome drug dependency. Lose (or gain) weight, enjoy a healthier diet. Get rid of, and/or obtain insight into, other habits. Management of Anxiety and Stress Control panic/anxiety attacks. Remove and/or obtain insight into, fears and phobias. Overcome fear of public speaking. Deal with stress/anxiety related conditions; IBS, tinnitus, feeling low, anger, irritability, insomnia, lack of concentration, tiredness, muscle pain, headaches, eczema, psoriasis, digestive problems, etc. Psychological and Emotional well-being Manage depression or grief. Build confidence and self-esteem. Control embarrassment or blushing. Improve physical conditions. Learn to suppress or control unnecessary physical pain or discomfort. Hypnosis has been shown to be effective in the treatment of a wide range of physical conditions.