Waking Self Hypnosis

You are in waking hypnosis when you are in hypnosis, but your eyes are open. Waking self-hypnosis is a very useful skill and can be applied in many situations. It is an amazing tool and performance booster when we need to be alert, register visual signals, and use the power of the subconscious mind at the same time.

The very brief definition of the hypnotic state is the special focus or alertness that allows us to access the enormous resources of the subconscious mind. We can learn different levels and different ways of accessing our subconscious mind. Classical hypnotic trance uses the voice of a hypnotherapist as the centre of focus, allowing this access. In self-hypnosis, we learn to maintain the hypnotic state in another way. It is natural for the eyes to close when entering the hypnotic state, because when the focus is on the voice, other signals are not needed. It is easier for the mind to focus on internal resources when other signals are excluded, so the hypnotherapist usually suggests closing the eyes. The same applies with self-hypnosis – it is easier to learn with the eyes closed.

I teach waking self-hypnosis when students are already in a hypnotic trance, so they can quickly grasp the idea and practise it instantly. However, some practice in self-hypnosis is usually needed first, because it is a more advanced technique. Students are taught different levels of waking self-hypnosis:

 

• Deep waking self-hypnosis – a very deep hypnotic state; it works almost like a good, relaxing sleep. Very useful in situations where we need to appear awake and respond to a visual or verbal stimulus, but would prefer to be in our own world, relax, or attend to a mental task. Great for boring meetings, doctors' waiting rooms and similar situations.
   

• Medium waking self-hypnosis – useful when we need to maintain a medium level of alertness, applicable for rhythmical physical exercise like running or swimming. Some clients use it also for conversations with their spouse, so they can say "aha" or repeat a phrase when required (perhaps not the best way to maintain a good relationship).
   

• Light waking self-hypnosis – this is the most amazing state, because it allows us to use the resources of the subconscious mind while fully alert, or in fact to use those resources to become even more alert. Exceptionally useful for maintaining deep concentration and focus when studying. Other practical applications include sport performance, especially golf, tennis and martial arts. I also teach this technique for public speaking and other public performance activities like singing or acting.