How do I know if I’m actually hypnotized?

This is one of the most common questions we get, and we've been getting it ever since we started teaching people hypnosis way back in 1998.

After a hypnotherapy session, it's common to wonder whether the hypnosis worked, or whether you were really hypnotized.

But I can remember what you said!

People sometimes think that they couldn't have been 'properly hypnotized' if they can remember what was said during the session. But they sometimes draw the same conclusion if they can't remember what was said - and then they tend to further conclude that they 'must have gone to sleep'.

The fact is, sometimes you'll have profoundly 'hypnotic' experiences and sometimes you'll feel as if you are just very relaxed.

Hypnosis is not a state of unconsciousness

Contrary to popular belief, you don't actually become unconscious during hypnosis; rather you experience a parallel state of awareness that allows you to continue to be aware of your thoughts and where you are, but also allows your mind to glide inwards to realities beyond your immediate environment.

It's quite normal to drift in and out and sometimes go deeper than at other times. Many people who believed they 'weren't hypnotized' (because they could 'still hear everything') have told us of their surprise when they found themselves experiencing amazing changes.

While you're listening to your hypnosis download, you'll feel relaxed and perhaps a little day-dreamy, and you may stop being aware of time passing. Afterwards you may have no conscious recollection of the ideas and suggestions from the download session - and that's fine, or you may be able to remember everything.

To learn more about hypnosis and how it works, take a look at our free online self hypnosis course.