Live vs. recorded hypnosis

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Recorded hypnosis | Live hypnosis | See also

Is live hypnosis, with a hypnotist present, better, or is it just as good to buy a hypnotic recording? (in which medium the web is full of 'stop smoking' and 'relax' offers). Here's a few thoughts.

Recorded hypnosis

In a CD, mp3 (or whatever) recording, a hypnosis session is presented on a given topic, typically on such commonly-needed subjects confidence and stress-relief.

Positives

There are a number of positive reasons for using a recording:

Cost: They are often much cheaper than purchasing the services of a live hypnotherapist.
Convenience: They are easy to buy and are always to hand. A hypnotherapist is not always available right when you need them.
Repetition: You can re-use them as often a you need.
Privacy: Many people would be too shy to go to a hypnotherapist.

A lot of work goes into a professionally produced recording, from careful scripting to the addition of appropriate background music.

Negatives

On the negative side, recordings do not always work and do not have the potential power of the live hypnotist.

Live hypnosis

Live hypnosis means visiting a hypnotherapist (unless they will come to your house) and putting your trust in their abilities.

Positives

The biggest thing about a live hypnosis session, when you are being hypnotised by an experienced hypnotherapist, is the feedback loop and consequent corrections. When the hypnotist makes a suggestion, they can see the result and vary what they say. When you say something, they will also change what they say to help.

To defray costs, some hypnotherapists will provide a 'reinforcement' recording for specific therapies to save you having to visit them more often.

Negatives

As the reverse of recording positives, live hypnosis is more expensive and requires you to take time to see the therapist. Repeat sessions get more expensive and many people may be shy of going to a therapist.