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Hypnotherapy & Hypnosis - What it feels like and what to expect, and how it works 

 

Some persons can feel a tad nervous before they have their first meeting and session - even though they really don't need to. That´s why I want to describe the usual procedure when someone visits me at ce-hypnosis.com 

For many people, the first hypnotherapy session brings curiosity mixed with a little uncertainty. That’s completely normal - especially if you’ve never experienced hypnosis before or if other approaches haven’t helped.

Most clients are actually surprised by how comfortable, grounded and natural the first session feels. Hypnosis is not something that happens to you. It is a guided, collaborative process where you remain fully aware and in control at all times.

Why the first session is important and matters

 

The first hypnotherapy session lays the foundation for change. It allows your subconscious mind to experience safety, relaxation and new ways of responding — without force or pressure.

You don’t need to believe in hypnosis or try hard for it to work.  Simply showing up and allowing the process is enough.

A calm and controlled experience

 

One of the most common concerns before a first hypnotherapy session is the fear of losing control. In reality, the opposite is true.

During hypnosis, you remain conscious, aware and present. You can hear everything that is said, you can speak, move, or adjust your position whenever you want, and you can stop the session at any time. Hypnotherapy works with your mind - not over it.

 

Many people describe the experience as similar to:

  • being deeply absorbed in a book or film

  • drifting just before sleep

  • daydreaming while remaining alert

 

Your body relaxes, while your mind stays focused and receptive and totally relaxed and in a comfortable state.

 

How your body may feel in the first session

As your nervous system settles, your body may naturally respond with:
 

  • a pleasant heaviness or lightness

  • slower, deeper breathing

  • warmth, tingling, or a floating sensation

  • muscles releasing tension without effort


These sensations are normal signs of relaxation and safety. There is no “right” or “wrong” way to feel - every experience is individual.

What happens mentally during the first hypnotherapy session

 

Mentally, many people notice a shift from busy thinking into a calmer, clearer state. This may include:

  • fewer racing thoughts

  • a sense of inner quiet or focus

  • increased awareness of imagery, words or sensations

  • time feeling shorter or different

 

You do not lose awareness or memory. Most people remember the session clearly from beginning to end, even though it may feel dream-like or deeply restful.

Hypnosis: A natural, relaxed state of focus

 

Hypnosis can feel like daydreaming, or just when you fall asleep, or it can feel exciting and focused!
Hypnosis is a faster way to experience a natural relaxed state which we visit every day. Very close to meditation.


However, your focus is shifted more into the present. Just like reading an exciting book or watching an exciting movie. 
Many actually wonder if they were in hypnosis because they only felt really relaxed.  

When you're in a relaxed state, hypnosis, you're not asleep.
Instead, you're comfortably relaxed and at the same time,
very alert to what's happening around you.

 

This is because you're tapping into your subconscious mind, which is more powerful. Swapping your conscious mind to your subconscious mind.

An example is when you're watching TV and you start to doze off a bit. You hear everything around you, maybe wishing people nearby would speak a bit softer, perhaps wanting a blanket... the ultimate relaxation, right before falling asleep. That's how simple it is, and that's how wonderful it feels.

What happens during our first hypnos session?

 

  1. We start by filling out a form where I jot down some background information and what changes you'd like to see. Preferably you have already prioritised what you would like to change.
     

  2. I briefly explain how hypnosis works, and perhaps you might want a demonstration.
     

  3. We do a few exercises to identify the words your senses prefer. There's no right or wrong, just what suits you the best.
     

  4. Now, it's time for some relaxation... I usually start by demonstrating deep breathing techniques (you can read about how to do this on my blog), then we begin focusing on what you wish to address.
     

  5. Once everything's done, some people feel energized, while others are cozily relaxed. We'll take a few minutes in case you have any questions, and I usually suggest you drink some water.
     

  6. Ideally, try not to overanalyze but let your subconscious continue working with the changes we've proposed.

 

Now you know what a typical hypnosis session feels like - so nothing to be nervous about, actually rather look forward to.

 
You can curiously look forward to a delightful relaxation.

What people typically feel during Hypnosis

Most people describe the experience as:
 

  • Calm and deeply relaxed, sometimes like a moment just before sleep or like closing your eyes to breathe deeply. 

  • Mentally focused yet physically comfortable, as if your attention is tuned inward. 

  • Time-distorted, where minutes can feel like moments, or the opposite.  

  • Lightness or heaviness, gentle tingling, or a sensation of floating - all perfectly normal and pleasant. 

  • So aware that they don't think they are in hypnosis. 


Every person’s experience is unique, so not everyone feels the same physical sensations, but most report feeling relaxed, safe, and more connected to their internal thoughts and emotions. ​​

Why Hypnosis works

 

Hypnosis works by quieting the conscious mind’s chatter and accessing the more receptive subconscious mind. This helps you build new mental patterns, change unhelpful reactions, reduce stress responses, and develop healthier responses to triggers. 

Importantly, you’re always in control - you decide what suggestions you accept, and you can emerge from the trance at any point.

Common benefits people experience

After hypnotherapy sessions, many clients report:
 

  • Increased calm and reduced stress

  • Greater clarity and emotional balance

  • Improved confidence and motivation

  • Healthier reactions to anxiety, phobias, or habitual patterns

  • Better sleep and mental well-being

  • After deep trauma work (without getting into the trauma) a sense of relief and a bit tired.


These effects often build with repeated sessions as new, positive neural pathways strengthen over time. Some notice subtle shifts straight away, while others experience changes unfolding gradually over the following days. Both responses are normal. 

​READ FAQ below

If you want to read common Q&As check them out here: Q&A

​If you want to find more information,  find it here with search options 

 

FAQ - Frequently asked questions first hypnotherapy session

Will I lose control during hypnosis?

No. You are fully aware and in control throughout the entire session. Hypnosis is not mind control - it’s a state of focused relaxation where you can choose to engage, speak, move, or stop at any time.
 

What if I can’t relax or ‘go into hypnosis’?

This is very common to worry about and not a problem at all. Hypnosis does not require effort or a special ability. If you can daydream, imagine, or focus on your breath, you can experience hypnosis. Your therapist guides the process gently.
 

What if I’m sceptical or analytical - can hypnotherapy still work?

Yes. Many people who describe themselves as sceptical, logical or analytical respond very well to hypnotherapy. You don’t need to “switch off” your mind - hypnosis works by focusing attention, not eliminating thinking. Curiosity is more than enough.

Will I remember what happens in the session?

Yes. Most people remember everything that is said and experienced during their first hypnotherapy session. Some may feel deeply relaxed and lose track of time, but memory remains intact. 
 

Is hypnotherapy safe for anxiety, stress or emotional issues?

Yes. Hypnotherapy is a safe, supportive approach that works with the nervous system and subconscious mind. It does not replace medical or psychological care, but can be a powerful complementary method for emotional regulation and wellbeing. (Deep depression or mental disorders are always advised and referred to seek medical care).
 

How will I feel after my first session?

Many people feel calm, grounded and mentally clearer afterwards. Some notice immediate emotional relief, while others experience subtle shifts that unfold over the following days. Every response is normal.

Don’t take our word for it - take theirs.

Read real reviews from people who have successfully done hypnosis.

Who seeks hypnotherapy?

Hypnotherapy is for anyone seeking change. No matter your age, background, or life path, people turn to hypnotherapy for support through life’s many challenges.

Ready for a new change?


1. State what you would like to change

2. Prioritize what is most urgent 
3. Make sure my response doesn't end up in your junkmail.

​​
 

Make sure you have consulted the doctor for medical reasons.​​

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© 2026 by CE-hypnosis

Please note:

I do not treat or cure diseases, and I do not work with cancer, mental illnesses, or severe depression; in such cases, I refer clients to medical care. What I can help you with is changing and managing various triggers, behaviours and emotions - which may have the positive side effect of improving physical well-being - or learning to handle reactions differently (e.g., to pollen, emotions, behaviours, pain, etc.). You can read some of my clients’ reviews here.

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