Pointers for the Beginner Hypnotist

Once we know the art of inducing hypnosis, we canSome day this question may be answered. I am now
discuss some of the finer points, some of the things aworking on this question and may have more to say
beginner ought to know before he proceeds further.about it later. But let us confine ourselves to the known
These things mean greater success or failure. First,facts and the practical aspects of the science. It is
gain the consent of your subject. Second, gain hiscontroversial enough without bringing in known
confidence. Third, gain his sympathetic cooperation.controversial issues.
Fourth, create in him a feeling or belief that he will go toYou may create expectancy in the subject by saying
sleep if he follows your instructions; that is, createthat much benefit may be derived from hypnosis; that
expectancy.he will enjoy a restful relaxation under hypnosis and
The first requirement will be met when the subjectthat no possible harm can come to him; that he will
agrees to being hypnotized by you. At least, by wordawaken easily; that he will be able to hear everything
of mouth he will agree. The hypnotist must be such ayou say and know everything that is done; that you will
person as will cause the subject to have confidence inawaken him any time he requests you to do so; that
him, his integrity and his ability. The least doubt in thehypnosis is just like sleep, except that he will be fully
mind of the subject of the ability of the hypnotist toconscious of everything you do and say.
induce hypnosis, or to take care of the subject whileBe sure to say that if he follows your directions and
asleep or to awaken him, may prevent hypnosis.listens to every word you, say, he will go sound asleep.
The hypnotist should keep himself in a neat andEmphasize: THAT HE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO
presentable condition. His voice and manners should beSTAY AWAKE. Say all this with conviction and do not
pleasing. His voice should be trained to be soothing andgrin when you say it. Make it sound as matter-of-fact
at the same time, carry conviction and self-confidence.as possible - like reading from a history book or stating
Therefore, cultivate your voice. His manners should notthe total of figures. In other words, just be plain
be those of a conceited despot, but more like a kindlymatter-of-fact about the whole thing. This creates
doctor, with the confidence and sincerity of an ableexpectancy.
lawyer, who knows what he wants and how to get itThe statement, "If you listen to every word I say and
done. The gleaming eyes of the old-fashioneddo exactly as I say, you will not be able to stay
hypnotists, who thought they must stare their subjectsawake," not only creates expectancy, but if the
into hypnosis, while they made weird gestures, aresubject is one of those unimaginative persons who are
passe.difficult to hypnotize, these words give you an alibi and
Wild gestures and bulged-out eyes are no longermay save your subject for a later day when he will be
deemed necessary. I am not in a position to say thatmore cooperative and go to sleep.
intense concentration is not necessary or useful,The mental attitudes of persons vary and on some
because it may be possible that mental forces assist inother day the subject might be more receptive, and
bringing on hypnosis. Many scientists think so. From mythereby you will mark up another success instead of
experience, I am inclined to believe that the mentalfailure. Do not let such a failure discourage you.
reactions of the hypnotist do have some effect on theRemember that the best operators have failures now
subject and the results achieved. As to whether this isand then.
through projected mental forces or from its reactionWith these pointers in mind, you will have greater
on the subject by suggestion, I am not prepared tosuccess as a hypnotist.
say, and neither is anyone else.