Methods of enabling clients to access the hypnotic trance are known as hypnotic inductions. Different methods suit different people. Three of these methods include hypnotic induction through eye fixation, relaxation and the confusion method of inducing hypnotic trance.
Eye Fixation Hypnotic Induction
This is the type of hypnotic induction that most people associate with hypnosis. The 'swinging watch' seen in old Hollywood films that the subject is asked to follow with their eyes comes into this category. In the therapeutic context, it is unlikely that any therapist would use a watch in this way unless of course the client insisted.
More usually, the client is asked to maintain a fixed gaze on a spot on the wall, an object or a hand or finger held in front of the client's eyes. The therapist will then make suggestions that the eyes are becoming tired and wanting to close. Continued fixation of the eyes on a hand, finger or pen wherever the therapist moves them, may also be suggested. The therapist may also bring the palm of his hand down in front of the client's eyes whilst simultaneously suggesting the client close their eyes.
The eye fixation method is useful where the client, perhaps on a first visit, has an expectation that being hypnotized involves some kind of ritual. The act of fixing the gaze in this manner also causes tiredness in the eyes, creating a strong desire to close them when instructed. Through fixation, the client's attention is absorbed quite quickly, shutting out extraneous noises and thoughts.
Once the eyes are closed, the therapist will continue to deepen the trance through suggestion. This is so that the trance state becomes established and to take the client to a level of trance suitable for doing therapeutic work.
The Relaxation Hypnotic Induction
Here the client is taken through a progressive relaxation process. Often, the client is guided through every part of the body starting at either the top of the head or the feet with a view to release any tensions. The client may be encouraged to pay particular attention to the muscles of the jaw and around the eyes and eyelids since these are areas where most people hold a lot of tension.
Sometimes a client is asked to imagine lying on a beach, or walking in the woods, with a mental picture painted using all the senses. A good hypnotherapist, however, will make notes during the initial consultation, noting where the client likes to relax or "visit" so that future sessions of guided imagery can be tailored to the client.
An even better method of establishing trance using this method involves making very non-directive suggestions for the client take himself to a place of relaxation. This gives the client complete leeway to create his own experience.
Confusion Method of Inducing Hypnotic Trance
The creation of mental confusion to induce the hypnotic trance is generally attributed to Milton Erickson. Here the therapist will intersperse his suggestions for going into hypnosis with instructions or ideas that do not make sense. Here is a short example: "whilst you are sitting there, your left hand may begin to feel lighter and lighter, whilst your right hand becomes heavier and heavier and as you feel your right hand becoming lighter so your left hand can continue to press down..."
Normally, one expects information to be logical. As the mind focuses more and more endeavouring to make sense of the information, the client will tend to go inside searching for understanding. Thus, the state of absorption is increased and the client readily moves into the hypnotic state.
Confusion can also be created through pattern interruption. A recognised pattern that is interrupted unexpectedly can cause sudden trance. The handshake is an example of a pattern with which most people are familiar. Erickson sometimes created this pattern interruption by removing his hand extremely slowly from his client's. The unfamiliarity of the disengagement would create the desired confusion and trance state.
Many therapists include a degree of confusion when inducing hypnosis because it is so effective. A hypnotic induction that comprises a high degree of confusion is often used with clients who are very analytical.
The Art of Hypnotizing
There are other ways to hypnotize. In practice, an experienced hypnotherapist will take these methods and create something that is unique for the client. This is the most successful way to induce trance.
Sources:
- Kendall/Hunt Publishing Company The Art of Hypnosis: Mastering Basic Techniques, C. Roy Hunter.
- Zeig, Tucker & Co. The Legacy of Milton Erickson: Selected Papers of Stephen Gilligan, Stephen G. Gilligan.
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