What is Hypnosis?
Understanding the Science and Myths Behind It
What is Hypnosis?
When you hear the word hypnosis, you might think of someone waving a pocket watch or making people act silly on stage. But that’s not the type of hypnosis we’re talking about here!
Hypnosis is a safe and helpful way to feel calm, focused, and in control. It’s even used by doctors and therapists to help people feel better—mentally and physically.
Hypnosis is a natural state of the mind which we all experience every day. It’s a relaxed and focused state that happens naturally. Have you ever:
Been so into a book or movie that you forgot what was happening around you?
Driven somewhere and didn’t remember part of the trip?
That’s hypnosis!
In this state, your brain is calm and open to helpful ideas. These ideas can help you feel better, change habits, or manage big feelings.
What Happens During Hypnosis?
So, what actually happens when someone tries hypnosis with Mercedes?
First, Mercedes will work in helping you relax your body and focus your mind. You might sit or lie down in a quiet space, close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths. Sometimes she’ll guide you to imagine a peaceful place—like a beach, forest, or cozy room.
Even though you’re deeply relaxed, you’re not asleep. You’re awake the whole time, and you’re always in control. If anything feels uncomfortable, you can stop whenever you want.
Many people say that after a session, they feel calm, clear-headed, and more confident. It’s kind of like pressing a reset button for your brain.
Now, let’s bust some common myths about hypnosis.
Hypnosis is not:
Mind control. No one can make you do something you don’t want to do.
Sleep. You may look relaxed, but your brain is still active.
Giving up control. Many people feel more in control after hypnosis.
How Can Hypnosis Help?
People use hypnosis for all kinds of reasons. It’s especially helpful for things like stress, worry, or trouble sleeping. It can also be great for managing pain—like during childbirth or with long-term health issues.
Some people use it to stop bad habits like nail-biting or smoking. Others use it to work through fears—like being afraid of flying or speaking in front of others.
Hypnosis can even help you perform better in sports, at school, or on stage. And if you’ve gone through something really hard—like a loss or trauma—it can help you heal emotionally too.
Sometimes, hypnosis is used alongside other therapies, to make the process even more helpful.
Specialized Hypnosis for the Perinatal Period
Mercedes offers a range of targeted hypnosis sessions specifically designed for those in the perinatal period. These sessions support individuals and families through fertility, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum healing:
Fertility – Create a calm, supportive mental space while navigating the fertility journey.
Fear Release for Labour and Birth – Let go of anxiety and feel empowered going into your birthing experience.
Birth 'Induction' Session – Gently encourage your body to prepare for labour when you're ready and waiting.
It's Time to Heal – Healing Your Birth Experience – Process and release difficult or traumatic birth memories with care and compassion.
Flip the Baby Session – Support your baby in moving into a more optimal position using relaxation and visualization techniques.
HypnoBirthing Prenatal Classes
HypnoMothering for Postpartum
These sessions are personalized, gentle, and designed to support both your emotional and physical well-being during this transformational time.
Who Can Use Hypnosis?
The good news is that most people can try hypnosis. You don’t have to believe in it for it to work—you just need to be open to the experience.
It’s especially helpful if you:
Want support with habits, emotions, or thoughts
Enjoy breathing exercises or relaxing activities
Are curious and willing to try something new
How Can I Try Hypnosis?
Here are some easy ways to get started:
Register to our HypnoBirthing Prenatal Class (online or in person) or HypnoMothering Class for Postpartum
Listen to guided hypnosis recordings for fertility, pregnancy, or sleep
Work with a Mercedes, she is a Certified Hypnotherapist and a Registered Counselling Therapist who specializes in the perinatal period
Learn self-hypnosis, so you can use it anytime you need calm or comfort
Want to give it a go?
Hypnosis isn’t magic—but it can feel magical in how it helps you relax, grow, and feel better. Whether you’re dealing with stress, pain, fears, or just want a calmer mind, hypnosis is a gentle and powerful tool that can support you in everyday life.
You don’t need to be an expert or “believe in it” for it to work. All you need is an open mind and a willingness to try something new.
Why not take a deep breath and explore what hypnosis might do for you?
References:
Elkins, G. R., Barabasz, A. F., Council, J. R., & Spiegel, D. (2015). Advancing research and practice: The revised APA Division 30 definition of hypnosis. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis, 57(4), 378–385.
Jensen, M. P., & Patterson, D. R. (2014). Hypnotic approaches for chronic pain management: Clinical implications of recent research findings. American Psychologist, 69(2), 167–177.
Landolt, K., Milling, L. S., & Szabolcs, K. (2022). Hypnosis for the treatment of anxiety: A meta-analysis. International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 70(2), 123–150.
Montgomery, G. H., et al. (2007). A meta-analysis of hypnotically induced analgesia: How effective is hypnosis? International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 55(3), 275–287.
Madden, K., Middleton, P., Cyna, A. M., & Matthewson, M. (2016). Hypnosis for pain management during labour and childbirth. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.