Learning how to hypnotize someone is not as difficult as many people may think it is. That’s because all hypnosis is essentially self hypnosis. The hypnotist is merely acting as a vehicle to help their partner better focus his or her imagination. Perhaps the easiest hypnosis method is the progressive relaxation method, which involves getting the partner to slowly relax each part of his or her body. Beware of your partner falling asleep, however, as this can be quite easy to do with this particular technique.
One should always keep in mind that what is said to the partner prior to induction is vitally important. The partner needs to feel comfortable with you and confident that you can hypnotize them. It’s also a good idea to ask your partner if they have been hypnotized before. Any prior experiences can help you get a better idea on how you can proceed with the hypnosis. Tell your partner that they will remember everything from the session, which is known as a “waking suggestion”. This will help to further establish trust and also in gaining feedback after the session is over.
Equally important is reassuring your partner that they will not be forced to do anything they do not want to do. It is a common misconception fueled by popular media that a hypnotist can get their partner to do anything. The truth is that a hypnotist cannot get someone to do anything that will go against their morals or beliefs.
Next ask your partner to lay down in a comfortable position while in a darkened room where disturbances are highly unlikely. Cell phones and pagers should be turned off, and this is also a good time to check to see if your partner is tired. If your partner is tired now will not be a good time to induce hypnosis as he or she will more than likely fall asleep.
Next, ask your partner to imagine their own “happy place” where they can feel comfortable and secure, such as relaxing on the beach or floating in a serene lake. At this time you will want to talk in a slow, soothing voice that matches the timing of your partner’s breathing. You will also want to elaborate and repeat your words in a way that is far beyond the point of boredom in regular conversation.
Once your partner is feeling safe and secure in their happy place, ask him or her to start relaxing the various parts of his or her body. An example of this would be: “Feel your toes relaxing. Now feel your feet relaxing. Feel your legs relaxing now. And now feel your hips relaxing.” Gradually change these requests in to suggestions. An example of this would be: “You feel relaxed as your entire body begins to feel heavy. And as I continue to speak, that heavy feeling will get stronger and stronger, carrying you deep, deep in to a peaceful state of hypnosis.”
Now your partner should be in a state suitable for hypnotic suggestion. Make sure that any suggestions you introduce after this are positive and geared towards achieving your partner’s goals and you will be well on your way towards a successful hypnosis session.
