Hypnotic Induction
A formalized group of words, phrases and imagery that move a subject’s attention away from the outside world and toward a relaxed and focused inner awareness (a hypnotic state). There are many different types of inductions. Certain inductions work better for particular personality types. Inductions also vary depending on the depth of trance state that is desired and the type of work that is to be accomplished while the subject is under hypnosis. A simple induction has three parts. The first part is a basic focusing and relaxing procedure, often a ten-to-one countdown using a variety of voice modulations and prompts. The second part is a bodily relaxation procedure, often a progressive relaxation method using direct suggestion. The third part involves deepening the trance state, often through the use of hypnotic guided imagery.
