Lately, there has been a lot of talk or discussion regarding Conversational Hypnosis. While the principles or policies of hypnosis stand firm, there are 4 things that you might not know about the Conversational method and the way it varies with the more conventional forms of hypnosis. A person not familiar with the complexities or intricacies of being hypnotized may think and conclude that all hypnotic styles and methods are one and the same. Difference #1. Direct Language vs. Indirect Language—conventional hypnosis tends to utilize a far more direct language. For instance: a conversational hypnotist might say “As you begin to breathe you may start to notice your shoulders becoming more and more relaxed” whereas a conventional hypnotist will be more direct by saying “Relax your shoulders now”.
Conversational Hypnosis uses cunningly unclear, but incredibly empowering and strong language to guide the participant into hypnosis. While on the surface, this language seems to be so simple; it utilizes indirect suggestions with clever structures to stimulate a state of trance. Difference # 2. Closed Eye Trance vs. Open Eye Trance—one of the more essential skills in Conversational Hypnosis is detecting or discerning the physiological signal that a waking trance does exist. Conversational method, unlike the conventional one, conjures or call upon a waking trance wherein the participant close their eyes if they want to; it is just that closure of the eye is not really important.
In conventional method however, it requires the closing of the eyes. Difference #3. Overt vs. Overt and Covert—the term overt means that the individual is well aware that they are going to be hypnotized, whilst covert means that they would not be aware of the hypnotic processes. Conversational Hypnosis could be used both covertly and overtly. The conventional method by nature is likely to be overt. The language is comprised of somewhat direct instructions which make the intention of the hypnotists difficult to guide. Due to the non-direct nature of the language, conversational method could be utilized in the other areas and aspects of life, and not just in a therapeutic sense.
Difference #4. Slow Induction vs. Quick Induction—though it is really essential for the individual to feel completely and totally relaxed, conventional hypnosis inductions are different from Conversational Hypnosis inductions. Conventional hypnosis inductions commonly utilize a progressive relaxation style wherein the person is slowly relaxed into a state of being hypnotized. While faster versions of the progressive relaxation technique have been improved and enhanced, a progressive relaxation hypnotic induction could take up to 25 minutes. A conversational induction could take only a few minutes. While some people I know have a strong personal preference for Conversational Hypnosis, neither of the methods or techniques is the wrong or the right way.
The mere process or feeling of being hypnotized is interestingly intriguing, fascinating and a powerful skill and ability to practice and master. Why don’t you try it—it has been quite an obsession of a close friend of mine for so many years now. Being hypnotized is a whole new experience to feel!
The author of this article, Amy Twain, is a Self Improvement Coach who has been successfully coaching and guiding clients for many years. Amy recently published a new home study course on how to boost your Self Esteem. More info about this “Quick-Action Plan for A More Confident You” is available HERE.