What Does Hypnotherapy Feel Like? Exploring the Hypnotic Experience
Have you ever been curious about hypnotherapy but hesitated because you’re not sure what it actually feels like? Myths abound: some people imagine complete unconsciousness, others fear losing control. In reality, hypnotherapy is a unique state of focused relaxation, blending alertness with deep calm. Read on to discover exactly what you can expect during a hypnotherapy session, backed by data and real-life insights, so you can make an informed decision about whether it’s right for you.
1. Entering a State of Deep Relaxation
One of the most consistent sensations reported by clients is profound relaxation. During the induction phase, your hypnotherapist guides you into a comfortable, semi-reclined position and uses soothing language to help you let go of tension.
Physical Sensations: You may notice heaviness in your arms and legs, a warming sensation, or a gentle tingling.
Data Insight: Studies using EEG (electroencephalography) have found that hypnosis increases alpha and theta brainwaves - patterns associated with relaxation and creativity - by up to 30% compared to resting wakefulness.
This physical calm lays the foundation for the mental work to follow, allowing your body to release stress while your mind remains open.
2. Heightened Focus and Suggestibility
Contrary to popular belief, you’re not “asleep” under hypnosis. Instead, you enter a state of focused attention where your conscious mind quietens and your subconscious becomes more receptive.
Mental Experience: Many describe this as akin to being engrossed in a good book or movie - aware of your surroundings yet deeply absorbed.
Fact Check: Research published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis indicates that hypnosis can increase suggestibility by 20–25%, making positive therapeutic suggestions more effective.
This heightened focus is what makes hypnotherapy so powerful for habit change, anxiety reduction, and pain management.
3. Feeling Safe and In Control
A common worry is that you’ll lose control under hypnosis. In practice, you remain fully aware and can choose to accept or reject any suggestion. Your hypnotherapist acts as a guide, never a director.
Client Feedback: Over 95% of participants in a UK survey reported feeling in control and safe during their sessions.
Why It Matters: Knowing you can emerge from the hypnotic state at any time without saying a single word helps build trust and reduces anxiety about the process.
With that safety net in place, you can explore underlying beliefs and emotions without fear.
4. Emotional Release and Insight
As you settle deeper into hypnosis, you may access memories, emotions, or insights that were previously hard to reach. This is particularly beneficial for issues like trauma, phobias, or chronic stress.
Emotional Release: You might experience a gentle release of emotions; tears, a rush of warmth, or a sudden sense of clarity.
Effectiveness Data: Studies show that combining hypnotherapy with counselling can reduce symptoms of PTSD and anxiety by up to 50% over traditional talk therapy alone.
These breakthroughs often happen when the subconscious mind finally feels safe enough to let go of its long-held burdens.
5. Post-Session Feelings: Calm, Refreshed, and Empowered
When the session ends, many clients describe a lingering sense of calm, as if they’ve just woken from a restful nap. It’s common to feel more optimistic, mentally agile, and ready to tackle life’s challenges.
Improved Wellbeing: A study published in the British Journal of Pain found that participants reported a 30% reduction in stress and improved sleep quality after only three hypnotherapy sessions.
Lasting Impact: The positive suggestions delivered during hypnosis can continue to influence your thoughts and behaviours for days or even weeks afterwards.
By combining the session’s deep relaxation with follow-up strategies such as self-hypnosis recordings, you reinforce these benefits in your daily life.
Why Hypnotherapy Might Be Right for You
If any of the following resonate, hypnotherapy could be an effective solution:
Persistent stress or anxiety that doesn’t improve with standard relaxation methods
Habits or dependences you want to break, from smoking to emotional eating
Phobias or fears that limit your daily activities
Chronic pain or sleep problems that affect your quality of life
Desire for personal growth and improved self-confidence
At OLIP Therapy, our qualified hypnotherapists and counsellors tailor each session to your unique needs, ensuring you feel comfortable, supported, and fully in control.
Ready to Experience Hypnotherapy for Yourself?
Hypnotherapy is a safe, evidence-based approach to achieving deep relaxation, emotional release, and lasting change. If you’re considering hypnotherapy but are still curious about what it feels like, we invite you to book a free discovery call with one of our experienced practitioners. Whether it’s online or in-person sessions you are interested in, we offer appointments seven days a week to suit you!
📞 Call us on 0800 970 4776
🌐 Email hello@oliptherapy.co.uk
Take the first step towards a calmer, more empowered you. Contact OLIP Therapy today to find out how hypnotherapy can help you overcome your challenges and unlock your full potential.
