What is hypnosis?
Hypnosis is a state of consciousness resembling sleep, but the person can still concentrate on memories, sensations, or other things. Hypnosis is an altered, relaxed state of mind, often used to help learn to control bad habits, pain, and stress.

Nine out of 10 people can be hypnotized. However, hypnotism will not work if the person does not want to be hypnotized. Hypnotism requires trust and imagination.

When hypnotized, a person’s heart rate decreases, body temperature changes, and blood flow to certain areas is reduced. The state of deep relaxation can divert attention from pain and other negative stimuli. Hypnotism even can be used as a pain reliever during certain surgeries, such as dental surgery.

Some uses of hypnotism include:

• to reduce pain
• to stop smoking
• to reduce anxiety
• to improve depression
• to overcome a fear or phobia

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