10 Quick Tips About Hypnosis

Simple, practical insights to help you get the most out of hypnosis – whether you’re curious, skeptical, or ready to book a session.

Hypnosis doesn’t have to be mysterious or complicated. Here are 10 quick tips that’ll help you understand how it works and what to expect.

1. You Can Practice Self-Hypnosis Anytime, Anywhere (In About 2 Minutes)

The simplest self-hypnosis technique: Close your eyes, and say “Every day, in every way, I’m getting better and better” 

Count to 10 using your fingers to keep place (so the brain doesn’t have to), and say the phrase each time. You will feel better in 3 days. The brain will learn to anticipate this phrase, and the therefore your mind is primed to notice the positive changes in your life. You are “seeding” your mind for what you want.

“Every day, in every way – I’m getting better and better.”

Self-hypnosis doesn’t require candles, special music, or an hour of free time. You can do it in your car before a meeting, in the bathroom during a stressful day, or while lying in bed at night.

2. Hypnosis Works Better When You’re Well-Rested

Being exhausted doesn’t help you go deeper – it just makes you sleepy.

Some people think being tired will help them “let go” more easily. Actually, the opposite is true. When you’re well-rested, your mind can focus more effectively, which creates better results.

If you’re coming to a session, try to get decent sleep the night before. If you’re practicing self-hypnosis, choose a time when you’re alert – not right before bed when you’re already dozing off (unless sleep is your goal).

3. Your First Session Is About Building Rapport, Not Instant Transformation

The first session is about getting to know each other and helping your mind feel safe.

Some people experience significant shifts after just one session. Others need a few sessions before things really start to click. Both are completely normal.

The first session is often about establishing trust, understanding your goals, and helping your nervous system recognize that this process is safe. Real, lasting change usually builds over 3-6 sessions.

Be patient with yourself – and with the process.

4. The More You Practice, The Faster You Go Into Hypnosis

Your brain gets better at hypnosis with practice – like building a muscle.

The first time you practice hypnosis, it might take 10-15 minutes to feel deeply relaxed. By your third or fourth session, you might drop into that state within 2-3 minutes.

Why? Your brain is learning. It’s creating a neural pathway that gets stronger each time you use it. Eventually, hypnosis becomes almost effortless.

This is why regular practice – even just 5 minutes a day – makes such a difference.

5. Hypnosis Isn’t About Being “Weak-Willed” – It’s About Focused Attention

People with strong focus and active imaginations are often the best at hypnosis.

There’s an old misconception that only “weak-minded” people can be hypnotized. The truth is exactly the opposite: hypnosis requires focused attention, which means people who are intelligent, creative, and capable of concentration tend to be excellent candidates.

If you’re analytical, that’s fine. If you question everything, that’s fine too. Your mind can observe the process while still participating in it.

6. You Can Record Sessions (With Permission) So You Can Listen Again

Listening to a recording of your session reinforces the work and deepens the results.

Many hypnotists will record your session (with your permission) so you can listen to it again at home. This is incredibly valuable – listening to the recording helps your subconscious continue the work between sessions.

It’s like getting a “homework assignment” that actually feels good to do. Put it on while you’re falling asleep, during a lunch break, or anytime you want to reconnect with that calm, focused state.

7. Hydrate Before Sessions – It Actually Matters

Dehydration affects your ability to focus and relax.

This seems simple, but it makes a real difference. Drink water before your session – not coffee, not energy drinks, just water.

When your body is well-hydrated, your brain functions better. You can focus more easily, relax more deeply, and get more out of the session.

Also avoid coming to a session hungry or right after a huge meal. Comfortable and balanced is ideal.

8. You Can’t “Fail” at Hypnosis

If you showed up and tried, you succeeded.

Some people worry they’re “not doing it right” or that hypnosis “isn’t working” on them. Here’s the truth: there’s no wrong way to experience hypnosis.

Maybe you felt deeply relaxed. Maybe your mind wandered. Maybe you felt like nothing happened at all. All of those experiences are fine – and all of them count as hypnosis.

Your subconscious is working even when your conscious mind thinks “nothing is happening.” Trust the process.

9. Virtual Sessions Work Just as Well as In-Person

Location doesn’t matter – connection and focus do.

I’ve worked with clients via video for years, and the results are just as strong as in-person sessions. Being in your own comfortable space can actually help you relax more deeply.

The only requirements: a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted, a comfortable place to sit or recline, and a decent internet connection. That’s it.

If you’re not local to Bellingham or prefer the convenience of staying home, virtual sessions are an excellent option.

10. Trust the Process Even When It Feels “Weird”

Your subconscious often offers up strange images or thoughts – and that’s actually a good sign.

Sometimes during hypnosis, unexpected thoughts, memories, or images pop up. Your logical mind might think, “That’s random” or “That doesn’t make sense.”

Don’t dismiss it. Your subconscious works in symbols, metaphors, and unexpected connections. What seems “weird” to your conscious mind is often exactly what your subconscious needs to process for healing to happen.

Trust those strange moments. They’re usually the most valuable parts of the session.

Ready to Experience Hypnosis for Yourself?

Let’s talk about what you’re hoping to work on.

Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, weight concerns, sleep issues, smoking, or something else entirely – let’s have a conversation.

Schedule your initial consultation – we’ll spend about an hour discussing your goals and whether hypnosis is the right approach. The consultation is $95, and if you decide to move forward, that fee is credited toward your program.

Or call me at 360-392-8723. I’m happy to answer your questions.