5 Common Misconceptions About Hypnosis (And What It Really Feels Like)
- Danielle Tasso
- Jul 30
- 4 min read
Have you ever wondered what hypnosis actually feels like? If Hollywood movies and stage shows are your only reference point, you
might be surprised by the gentle, empowering reality of therapeutic hypnosis.
When I tell people I'm a hypnotherapist, I often see that familiar flicker of curiosity mixed with uncertainty cross their faces. "Will I cluck like a chicken?" they joke. "What if I can't wake up?" others worry. These reactions tell me just how many myths still surround this powerful healing modality.
Let's clear the air and explore what hypnosis truly is—and isn't.
Misconception #1: "I'll Lose Control and Do Embarrassing Things"
The Reality: You remain completely aware and in control throughout the entire session.
Therapeutic hypnosis is nothing like those dramatic stage performances where volunteers seem to lose all inhibition. In a healing session, you're simply in a deeply relaxed state—similar to that drowsy feeling right before you fall asleep, or when you're so absorbed in a good book that you lose track of time.
What it actually feels like: Imagine sinking into your most comfortable chair after a long day. Your body feels heavy and relaxed, but your mind stays alert and focused. You can hear everything I'm saying, you can move if you need to, and you can even open your eyes whenever you choose. Many clients describe it as the most peaceful they've felt in months.
Misconception #2: "Only Weak-Minded People Can Be Hypnotized"
The Reality: The ability to experience hypnosis is actually a sign of mental strength and focus.
Research shows that people with higher intelligence and stronger imaginations tend to be the best hypnotic subjects. It takes mental discipline to follow guided visualizations and maintain focused attention—skills that indicate a robust, flexible mind.
What it actually feels like: Rather than feeling weak or passive, clients often report feeling empowered and mentally sharp during sessions. You're actively participating in your own healing, using your imagination and inner wisdom to create positive change.
Misconception #3: "I Might Get Stuck in Hypnosis"
The Reality: It's impossible to get "stuck" in hypnosis—your brain won't allow it.
Hypnosis is simply a natural state of focused attention that we drift in and out of throughout the day. Even if I were to suddenly leave the room (which would never happen), you would either naturally emerge from the state or drift into regular sleep and wake up normally.
What it actually feels like: Emerging from hypnosis feels like gradually waking up from a refreshing nap. There's no jarring transition—just a gentle return to your normal state of awareness, often accompanied by a sense of calm and clarity that can last for hours or even days.
Misconception #4: "Hypnosis Can Make Me Reveal My Deepest Secrets"
The Reality: You can't be forced to say or do anything against your values or wishes.
Your moral compass and personal boundaries remain fully intact during hypnosis. If I were to suggest something that goes against your beliefs or comfort level, you would either reject the suggestion or naturally emerge from the hypnotic state.
What it actually feels like: You maintain
your sense of self throughout the session. While you might gain new insights or perspectives, you're never compelled to share anything you'd prefer to keep private. The experience feels safe and protected—like having a meaningful conversation with a trusted friend in the most comfortable setting imaginable.
Misconception #5: "If It Doesn't Work Immediately, I'm Not Hypnotizable"
The Reality: Hypnosis is a skill that often improves with practice, and everyone experiences it differently.
Some people notice dramatic shifts after their first session, while others find that the benefits unfold more gradually. There's no "wrong" way to experience hypnosis—some feel deeply relaxed, others notice vivid imagery, and some simply feel peacefully aware.
What it actually feels like: Think of learning to meditate. Your first session might feel different from your fifth or tenth. Each experience builds on the last, creating deeper pathways for relaxation and positive change. Even if you don't feel dramatically different during the session itself, you might notice improved sleep, reduced anxiety, or clearer thinking in the days that follow.
The Beautiful Truth About Hypnosis
Here's what consistently amazes me about working with hypnosis: the profound gentleness of the experience combined with its remarkable power to facilitate healing and growth. Clients often tell me they've never felt so relaxed yet so mentally clear at the same time. Most people experience a lovely gently feeling of floating in and out of reality.
During a typical session, you might notice:
A pleasant heaviness in your limbs, like you're melting into the chair
A slowing of your thoughts, similar to watching clouds drift across the sky
Vivid, peaceful imagery that feels both real and dreamlike
A deep sense of inner knowing and wisdom
Time seeming to pass quickly or slowly—both are normal
The most beautiful part? This isn't something being "done to" you—it's a natural capacity you already possess. I'm simply guiding you back to your own inner healing wisdom.
Ready to Experience It Yourself?
If you've been curious about hypnosis but held back by these common myths, I invite you to explore this gentle yet powerful healing modality. Whether you're looking to reduce stress, overcome limiting beliefs, or simply experience deeper relaxation, hypnosis offers a safe, natural path to transformation.
Interested in experiencing guided hypnosis from the comfort of your own home? Check out my collection of therapeutic meditations and hypnosis sessions on my Youtube Channel Here.
Each recording is designed to help you access your own natural healing abilities in a safe, supportive way.
What questions do you still have about hypnosis?
I'd love to hear from you in the comments below, or feel free to reach out directly.
Remember, the most important step in any healing journey is simply being open to the possibility of positive change.
If you want more information, reach out to me ,
Daniela, at Oceanhypnosis@gmail.com
or text me at 631-948-1300
Comments