Hypnosis is derived from the Greek word `hypnos`, which means sleep. Hypnosis is a subject that is most debated and studied to reveal the mystery of it. Many scientists have postulated many theories over hypnosis. There are many misconceptions about the hypnosis in popular belief. These days hypnosis is widely practiced and has various applications in different fields.

Concept of Hypnosis: Hypnosis is a practice where a person is subjected to the suggestions of the instructor to reach an altered state of mind. Hypnosis is scientifically verified and effective technique that enhances the change of human behavior and promotes physical and mental well-being.

General Methods of Hypnosis: The process of hypnosis involves two persons-the subject and the instructor. The art of creating the hypnotic state in the subject is known as induction procedure. Some practitioner uses the simple calming techniques where the other instructor use complex triggers like mechanical devices.

General Effects of Hypnosis: The effects of hypnosis can be explained by two theories viz. focused attention and hypnosis and suggestibility. According to the first theory hypnosis is the state of extreme concentration where a person becomes completely unaware of the surroundings. As per the second theory there is a strong correlation between how easily a person can be put in a state of hypnosis and their level of suggestibility.

Different Types of Hypnosis: Self-hypnosis, waking hypnosis and walking hypnosis are different types of hypnosis. Self-hypnosis is an autosuggestion by which a person hypnotizes himself or herself. In walking hypnosis the person can enter the trance state while repeating a monotonous work like walking, gardening etc. Waking hypnosis is the procedure where hypnosis is possible without entering the trance.

Different Theories of Hypnosis: There are various theories on hypnosis, which explains properly the procedures and effects of hypnotism in human subjects. The theories are Social Constructionism/role playing theory, dissociation theory, neuropsychological theory, hypnosis in condition and conditioned process leading to sleep, hyper suggestibility theory, informational theory, system theory etc.

Applications of Hypnosis: Hypnosis has a wide range of application like medicinal therapy, dentistry, anesthesia, dermatology, education, surgery and also in various psychological disorders like memory loss, hallucinations, compulsions, delusions and false memory etc. Present days hypnotism is being used in forensics, sports, physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Researches on Hypnosis: Modern scientists conduct many researches on hypnosis and reveal many facts like it is helpful in controlling obesity, reducing acute pain and many chronic diseases. Brain imaging is also done on the subjects who are already hypnotized.

Entertainment and Hypnosis: Sometimes hypnosis is performed on the stage and the instructor chooses the subject from the audience. Thus a large number of people can witness the process of hypnosis. The subject always tries to do something extraordinary during the stage hypnosis to convince the audience.

Misconception about Hypnosis: In popular culture there are many misconceptions about hypnosis. Some people think that it is easy to hypnotize the persons who are weak-minded and more imaginative. But most of the notions are proved wrong