Explore the Origins and Evolution of Hypnosis

The history of hypnosis goes far back to ancient times, and we have record of people going into trance states by means of chanting, drumming, singing, and achieving altered states of consciousness and awareness. Hypnosis isn't new, but re-discovered, as well as renamed through the ages.  I love science and history, especially when it validates practices I partake in. Let's explore the origins and evolution of subconscious programming here, but if you're interested in learning more, I dedicated an entire chapter to the history and science of hypnosis in my upcoming book, Mind Magic: Understanding Your Subconscious Superpowers. 

The Roots of Subconscious Programming in Ancient Practices

Long before the term "hypnosis" was coined, ancient civilizations practiced forms of trance and suggestion that resemble what we now call hypnosis and hypnotherapy. The ancient Egyptians, for example, used sleep temples where patients would enter a deep, meditative state to heal both body and mind. These early healers understood something profound; the mind’s hidden layers could influence physical health.

Similarly, in ancient Greece, the practice of incubation involved sleeping in sacred places to receive divine messages or cures through dreams. This was an early recognition of the subconscious mind’s role in healing and transformation. It’s humbling to think that thousands of years ago, people were already tapping into the power of suggestion and altered states of consciousness.

Ancient temples where early trance practices were performed

These ancient methods laid the groundwork for what would eventually become clinical hypnotherapy, as we know it today. This history of ancient forms of hypnosis remind us that subconscious programming is not a new fad but a timeless human endeavor to harness the mind’s hidden potential, or to attempt to communicate with the divine.

How Subconscious Programming Shaped Modern Hypnosis

Fast forward to the 18th century, and we meet Franz Mesmer, often called the father of modern hypnosis. Mesmer’s theory of “animal magnetism” suggested that an invisible force could be manipulated to heal ailments. While his ideas were controversial and later debunked scientifically, Mesmer’s work sparked widespread interest in trance states and suggestion.

What fascinates me about Mesmer’s story is how it highlights the power of belief and expectation in subconscious programming. People who believed in Mesmer’s magnetic force often experienced real improvements, showing how the mind’s programming can influence physical reality.

Later, James Braid, a Scottish surgeon, coined the term “hypnosis” and moved the practice toward a more scientific approach. He recognized hypnosis as a state of focused attention and heightened suggestibility, rather than mystical forces. This shift was crucial because it framed hypnosis as a tool for mental transformation, accessible to anyone willing to engage with their subconscious mind.

Historical tools used in early clinical hypnosis sessions

Understanding this evolution helps me appreciate how subconscious programming is not just about tricks or illusions. It’s a genuine psychological process that can be harnessed for healing, growth, and change.

The Science Behind Hypnosis and Subconscious Programming

Hypnosis is a way to bypass the critical, conscious mind and communicate directly with the subconscious. This is where our deep-seated beliefs, habits, and emotional patterns reside. When you enter a hypnotic state, which happens naturally when your brainwaves slow down to Theta (between 4 Hz - 8 Hz), your focus narrows.

Theta brainwave state is our brainwave state just before Delta, which is our sleep state. Theta is the drowsy, not asleep but not wide awake and alert either state right before we fall asleep. Your body is calm, relaxed and barely, if at all, moving while your mind is focused on one particular thought, idea, or image. This state creates a fertile ground for new suggestions to take root. For example, if you want to overcome anxiety or break a bad habit, hypnosis can help reprogram the subconscious mind to support healthier responses.

Clinical studies have shown that hypnosis can be effective for pain management, stress reduction, and even improving sleep. What’s more, it’s a collaborative process. The hypnotherapist guides you, but your subconscious mind ultimately decides what to accept and integrate.

If you’re curious about the detailed history of hypnosis and its scientific underpinnings, you might be interested in my book, Mind Magic: Understanding Your Subconscious Superpowers.

Reject Technology Taking Over Your Subconscious Programming

Looking ahead, I'm worried about the future of humanity, if we keep going the way we are. I’m underwhelmed with the reality of AI taking over our minds. With advances in neuroscience and technology, we’re gaining deeper insights into how the subconscious mind works. At the same time we're seeing the harmful effects of AI, that marketing companies and tech-bros are forcing upon us unwittingly. There's a real danger in bad actors trying to replace therapists, including hypnotherapists, with AI chat bots. We have already seen harm come to real humans who have used AI Chat bots as friends, confidants, and even therapists!

Humanity would be wise to reject this. Trusting AI with your deep seated issues and personal patterns, or bad habits can prove to be very damaging to you. I sincerely hope humanity will reclaim our brains, dump AI, and take control over our own programming, instead of letting ourselves be programmed.

I will stand my ground on this unpopular opinion: There's nothing superior about artificial intelligence. It is detrimental, harmful, and has already led humans to self-harm, suicide, and murder-suicide, as well as it encourages people towards murder, and criminal behavior. I do not see any positives for humanity coming from artificial intelligence. Not only does it threaten millions of human jobs, worldwide, but worse than that, it discourages critical thinking, encourages psychosis, and takes a harmful toll on our environment that is too costly for humanity and the planet to handle. Just to run the buildings that house the machines that generate these artificial intelligent technologies, it uses so much water that it is going to put us in a major drought. People who live near these buildings are already suffering real life health consequences.

I highly encourage you to embrace your own intelligence before it's too late. Reclaim your own brain, and reject the dependency on AI that companies, media and the government are forcing on us against our will. Your brain is the most powerful tool you have. Use it, don't lose it. Remember that the biggest super-computer on earth, is the human mind, regardless of the tech-bros lies. They want you to stop thinking and let them do the thinking for you, via their shiny technologies that can distract you with virtual worlds, and custom character fake-friends to cure the loneliness epidemic and be your personal cheerleader. Understand your own subconscious programming, and stop letting AI and social media platforms program you and rewire your brain. If you come across a therapist, hypnotherapist, coach, or physician who relies on AI to conduct their practice, run!

Therapy, including Hypnotherapy, is not and should never be a high-tech thing, outside of MP3s. What makes psychotherapy effective is the real human connection and understanding, something a computer can not actually provide you. Likewise, the heart of hypnotherapy is a compassionate, respectful dialogue with your inner-self, guided by a professional asking the right questions. Again, not something a computer can do for you. Ethical Hypnotherapy in the world of modern hypnosis empowers individuals by helping them access this inner power through professional clinical hypnotherapy. It’s about reclaiming control over your mind and life.

A serene space designed for hypnosis and subconscious exploration

The story of hypnosis is a testament to human curiosity and resilience. From ancient temples to modern clinics, the quest to understand and harness the subconscious mind's magic continues to inspire and transform. I hope this glimpse into its history encourages you to explore your own mind’s hidden depths with openness and courage. Book a 15 minute free consultation and find out if hypnotherapy is right for you!