Jan. 4, Celebrate World Hypnotism Day! (But not while you drive.)

Today is World Hypnotism Day, a day to recognize the benefits of hypnosis in reducing stress, overcoming habits, creating positive life changes, and in complementing medical and mental health treatments. WHD also helps to raise awareness of the professional status of certified hypnotists and hypnotherapists. 

But what is hypnosis, exactly? A popular (and practical) definition describes hypnosis as a brain wave state involving deep relaxation and heightened suggestibility. It's not sleep, though I have had clients fall asleep in my chair. And it's not a state where I - or any other hypnotist - can bend you to my will and make you do unspeakable things you'd never, ever do if left to your own druthers, like covering your popcorn with marinara sauce and feeding it to your budgie.

I find that hypnosis is a wonderful complement to the counseling work I do, and has been very helpful, and enjoyable, for most of my clients. For one thing, they get to relax - really relax! In fact, I'm considering offering hypnotic vacations - visit the distant land of your choice, relax on a dream beach, all without leaving the comfort of our large, comfy leather chairs! If you like, I'll even whip up an imaginary hotel laundry list or bar bill, just to make your hypnotic vacation seem more more real!

I also make CDs and MP3s for my clients, so they can practice at home. Sometimes people ask if they can listen to the recordings in the car. No. It's a bad idea to combine a recording that says "close your eyes" with merging lanes on the freeway. Just sayin'!

Since 2009, Berkeley has issued at least one mayoral proclamation recognizing World Hypnosis Day. I've been remiss in not requesting a similar proclamation from Albany. Albany is home to some excellent hypnotists and therapists who use hypnosis. Maybe I'll get it together next year and we can all celebrate!

If you'd like to sample hypnosis yourself, a few well known hypnotists have donated free recordings at the official World Hypnotism Day website. You can find them here: http://www.worldhypnotismday.com

Happy World Hypnotism Day! (And do call me if you want that armchair vacation!)