What is hypnosis?

Hypnosis is a technique to communicate directly with the subconscious mind, as opposed to normal human communication, which is with the conscious mind.

The human mind has two components or states -- conscious and subconscious. There are those functions of the mind and body which we control through our will such as reading, walking, and talking. These are functions of the conscious mind. There are also those functions of the body which happen automatically. We breathe, we blink our eyes, our heart beats, we digest food without consciously thinking about it. These are some of the functions controlled by the subconscious mind.

There is also ample evidence to suggest that the brain or the mind can exert influence and control over otherwise automatic, subconscious bodily functions. With proper training, we can exert some control over the automatic beating of our heart. Although we breath automatically, almost anyone can consciously regulate the rate at which they breath.

There is clearly a link between the subconscious or autonomic bodily and mental functions and those which are volitional. Through hypnosis we can intentionally control both conscious and subconscious function.

In summary, hypnosis is the ability to communicate directly with, and, to some extent, control the actions of the subconscious mind.