What is Suggestion?
A statement or idea presented during hypnosis designed to influence thoughts, feelings, or behaviors.
In hypnosis, a suggestion is a carefully crafted statement intended to influence your subconscious mind. Suggestions are most effective when delivered during the focused, receptive state of hypnotic trance.
Effective suggestions are typically positive (focusing on what you want, not what you're avoiding), present-tense, specific, and emotionally meaningful. For example, "I feel calm and confident" is more effective than "I won't be nervous."
Types of suggestions include direct suggestions (clear statements), indirect suggestions (metaphors and stories), and post-hypnotic suggestions (instructions to activate after the session ends).
Your subconscious mind acts as a filter—you'll naturally accept suggestions that align with your values and reject those that don't. This is why hypnosis cannot make you do anything against your will.