Is Hypnosis Real — Or Just a Myth?
When most people think of hypnosis, they picture a swinging pocket watch, someone clucking like a chicken, or a mind-control scene from a movie. But is hypnosis really real — or just a myth built on Hollywood stories and stage tricks?
Let’s set the record straight: Hypnosis is very real, and modern science backs it up.
What is hypnosis, really?
Hypnosis is a natural state of focused awareness and deep relaxation. In this state, your brain becomes more open to positive suggestions, allowing you to work directly with your subconscious mind — the place where habits, patterns, and beliefs live.
Is there real science behind hypnosis?
Yes. Numerous studies using fMRI scans have shown that during hypnosis, there are real, measurable changes in brain activity. Research from Stanford, Harvard, and other universities confirms that hypnosis can help manage pain, reduce stress and anxiety, break bad habits, and support behavior change.
For example, a 2016 Stanford study found that certain areas of the brain show increased connectivity during hypnosis, proving it’s not just “pretend.” Hospitals and clinics even use medical hypnosis to help patients prepare for surgery or manage chronic pain.
Where did the myths come from?
Stage hypnosis and old movies popularized the idea that hypnosis means losing control or being forced to do silly things. In reality, no one can make you do something you truly don’t want to do under hypnosis. You stay aware and in control — you’re just deeply relaxed, and your mind is more focused.
So, does hypnosis really work?
Hypnosis does work — but it isn’t magic. It works best when you genuinely want change and are open to it. You can’t “snap your fingers” and force someone to quit smoking or lose weight overnight, but hypnosis can help you change the subconscious beliefs and patterns that make those habits stick.
“Hypnosis is a powerful tool because it helps you rewrite the stories you keep telling yourself — stories that often hold you back without you even realizing it.”
— Alexandra Janelli, Founder of burble and Clinical Hypnotherapist
Try it for yourself:
Want to test whether hypnosis is real for you? Here’s a quick self-hypnosis tool:
Find a quiet place and close your eyes.
Take five slow, deep breaths.
Imagine a warm light above your head, gently flowing down through your body, relaxing every muscle.
Silently repeat: “I am open to positive change. I choose new thoughts that support me.”
Sit in this relaxed state for 2-5 minutes.
Notice how you feel afterward — lighter, calmer, clearer. That’s the power of focused awareness in action.
At burble, we’ve taken this age-old practice and combined it with modern AI technology to help people tap into the subconscious mind anytime, anywhere — without stage tricks, just real change.