As many of us think hypnotism is not some thing like a black magic which can be performed only by a blessed few. The fact is that hypnotism has nothing magical in it. It is only a technique by which a person performing hypnotism gives suggestions to a person undergoing a hypnotic therapy. The person who performs the hypnotic therapy is called the hypnotist and the person under going the hypnotic therapy is called the subject.

Normally the suggestions given by the hypnotist will de designed in such a manner to influence the behaviour of the subject of hypnotic therapy. If the suggestions are to be accepted by the subject it should be designed in a positive nature. If not the subject will reject the suggestions made by the hypnotist.

Contrary to our belief, one cannot make a person believe any thing and every thing through the procedure of hypnotism. Hypnosis is not a state in which the subject falls into a completely unconscious state of mind in which the hypnotist can take full control of the person so as to make him obey all the suggestions and commands made by him.

Even in a hypnotic sleep, the person under going the hypnotic therapy will be in full control of his mind. He will reject all suggestions that come against his belief. He can even come out of the hypnotic sleep if he feels any thing annoying during the hypnotic therapy. As most of us still believe it is not possible to extract every thing from the mind of person without cooperation from the part of the subject.

Hypnotism does not always require the presence of a hypnotist. It is possible to perform hypnotic therapy by a person who wishes to make himself subject to hypnotic therapy. In such cases both hypnotist and the subject will be a one and the same person. This type of hypnotism is known as self hypnosis.

Manifestation techniques such as meditation can be cited as an example for self hypnosis. By practising the techniques of self hypnosis one can easily inject positive thinking to his mind to increase the confidence level of his mind.

Hypnotic therapy is now widely used to correct behavioural problems of men by providing positive suggestions to such persons. It can also be used effectively in building self respect, controlling weight, improving personal relationships, treating alcohol and drug addiction, reducing stress and many other similar problems of individuals.