Hypnosis: One Woman, an Artist and a PhD Candidate

Although I’ve practiced and shared hypnosis with others for more than six years, I only formalized my work in this area in early 2012.  It took eight weeks of research to develop a unique approach that I call the “Hypnotic Experience.”

Hypnotic Experience comes in a couple of flavors. It’s a blog; an entertaining show for community festivals, events, parties and fundraisers; and an informative seminar for stress management, career or academic achievement and athletic performance.

Plus, I have had the good fortune to teach self-hypnosis to individuals and small groups in a more intimate environment.  This is enjoyable and incredibly rewarding as I am able to establish a personal connection during the process.

Last Wednesday is a prime example.  A few weeks back I connected with a woman in follow-up to a seminar I co-hosted.  She expressed an interest in experiencing hypnosis with her live-in boyfriend and a few of their adult-aged children.

The woman’s story is one of a great challenge, sacrifice and accomplishment.  I won’t go into specific details, yet she’s the type of person who has persevered through situations that could have easily led her down an unproductive path.

Her introductory experience with hypnosis was incredibly positive.  She slipped quickly into a trance state, and I focused the suggestions on feelings of confidence and empowerment.  It’s a classic approach to stress management.

The two young adults in the session were equally fascinating.  One is pursuing an undergraduate degree in fine arts and drips with creativity – from his appearance to his personality.

Hypnosis is a powerful tool for people who have a vivid imagination, such as artists and athletes.  They can focus and they’re exceptional at visualization.

He was no exception.  To his surprise, he entered a deep hypnotic trance and emerged from the session surprisingly refreshed.

The second young adult in the session was a first for me – a PhD student in clinical psychology.  Although she enjoyed the hypnotic induction and definitely relaxed, she ultimately wasn’t able to allow her conscious mind take a step back to achieve a true hypnotic state.

At the conclusion of the session, we had a fascinating discussion about how the brain functions and processes stimuli.  

Admittedly, my understanding of the science of hypnosis is limited.  It’s an area where I plan to read more in the coming weeks.

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Here is an Email the woman sent to me after the hypnosis session:

“Thank you so much, Marc!  I wish you could have heard the very positive and excited feedback on the car ride back!  We were interrupting each other all the way home raving it about. 

It totally worked for Jordan and he said he was skeptical about it at first.  He is the artist son.  Now he is very excited about it and went on and on about how you don't believe it until it works for you and then you have no choice but to believe in it. 

Amanda is a big believer too.  She likes the focus on the positive and said there is a lot of research to prove it works and is a valuable tool, so she thought it was great and enjoyed the way you presented it.

I went for Brian but realize I have a lot to learn about relaxing myself and while I usually go to the hot sunny beach in my thoughts when I am ill, I need to use that a lot more often like you do for maximum benefit.  It was great that we all got a lot of positive out of it.”

For My 50th Post: Best Read and Best Viewed

It has been quite a first year for my "Hypnotic Experience" blog. 

I published forty-nine articles that attracted more than 1,800 readers who share my interest in the use of hypnosis for emotional and physical well-being, stress management, career and academic achievement, and athletic performance.  I even had attendees at events where I performed mention the blog and how something I had written inspired them.

Amen to that!

So...I couldn't think of a better way to celebrate my 50th post than to publish a "best of."  Included below are links to my three most popular articles this year and a set of performance photos from my Flickr account.

I plan to take a few days off for Christmas with the family.  I'll be back this coming week with a recap of a group session I have planned for Wednesday night on hypnosis for stress management.

Enjoy the holiday!


Impressions from the "Hypnosis for Exceptional Living" Event
Published November 19, 2012

The majority of participants did achieve a baseline level of hypnosis.  Simple suggestions related to "sleep" and "heavy eyes" worked well and presented a foundation for me to move to post-hypnotic instructions for stress relief and a positive view of life.

I then worked with the group to introduce their own voice into the process through a mental countdown from the number of 20.  This was a bridge for a discussion about self-hypnosis.


One Hypnotizing Weekend
Published September 2, 2012

I was fortunate to have lined up this Labor Day holiday weekend three opportunities to introduce hypnosis to people who expressed an interest in learning how it can be used for stress management, academic excellence and athletic performance.

-Georgetown University's Midnight Carnival
-Helping Fix a Flawed Shoulder
-Gathering of an Exceptional Set of High Schoolers


Yoga-nidra and Hypnosis:  Similar Process, Similar Experience
Published July 31, 2012

I have been on a comparison kick exploring the relaxation and stress management benefits of hypnosis with other popular and proven techniques.  A few weeks back I spent time with a yogi and, after hypnotizing her, asked her to assess her experience in relation to Bikram.  Here's a link to that post.

Today, I worked with a successful, intelligent and professionally driven woman who has practiced Yoga-nidra, also referred to as "yogi sleep."  The hypnotic experience was an exceptional and powerful one for her which I believe can be partly attributed to some work stress she has been under during the past few weeks.

The "sleep" suggestion at my Friday night performance at the Bradley Farm Haunted Mansion festival.

 

A technique to deepen the hypnotic state from Saturday night show at Bradley Farm.

The "funny face" suggestion.  The girl on the right remains deep in trance.

Hypnotic Perfomance on New Year's Eve

Are you still considering your New Year's Eve plans?

If so, I encourage you to check out the 2013 New Year's Eve Gala hosted by Professionals in the City at the Capital Hilton in Washington, DC.

I maintain a relationship with Professionals in the City and recently collaborated with them on an event entitled "Hypnosis: a Positive Approach to Exceptional Living."  Their events are well organized, fun and typically feature a line-up of impressive entertainers.

Near Year's Eve is no exception.  There will be live music, dancing, comedians, circus acts and...yes...me with my "Hypnotic Experience" show.  In fact, I am the featured performer on the London Stage at the event.

So...check out the Web site and consider joining 3,000 people for what I anticipate will be a wonderful evening.


PS, you will receive a $5 discount on each ticket if you use the promotional code "Hypnotist" when registering.

Well Being and the Accomplished Professional

On this blog I discuss my practice of and interest in hypnosis as a tool for emotional and physical well-being, as well as the performances, seminars and individual sessions I participate in.  Yet, this represents a small part of my professional world.

On January 6, I will celebrate 18 years as the founder and CEO of a professional services firm that helps companies grow their business through more effective marketing, social media and communications programs.  I'm truly blessed to have exceptional clients, and a set of colleagues who are passionate and professional.

In fact, I have worked with each member of my senior team for more than five years.  My lead operations and financial executive has been a friend, trusted advisor and co-worker for 15 years.

While my professional world has long been in good standing, I have still been challenged by the stress, tension, worries and competitive pressure that comes with being in business.  It has taken its physical toll on me and, I'm convinced, prematurely aged me.

For instance, my brother -- just a few years younger -- sports a healthy head of hair with merely a touch of gray.  I'm not quite as lucky on either front.  Solely genetics?  It's doubtful.

My introduction to hypnosis six years ago was born out of my desire for a natural approach to well-being that I could practice independently.  The improvements it has brought to my life inspired to to share the practice with others.

Regardless of your choice of career and decision about family, I encourage you to find an approach to well-being.  Eat well.  Be active.  Sleep.  Love.  And shed stress.

You'll be happier, healthier and perhaps keep your hair longer.

PS, Here is a link to a great read with 12 tips on how a business professional can manage career stress.  My favorite suggestion:  "Learn how to switch off: This is a skill and has to be learnt. You can meditate, cycle, learn yoga or paint - whatever works for you – just do it!"


Managing Stress at the Top  
Management Issues Magazine (12.13.12)

Image Source:  Wise Living Yoga

    

A Higher Plain of Happiness

You're driving in the car and a song comes on the radio that takes you back to your high school days.  Neglected memories instantly emerge from deep within your mind. 

Or perhaps you are walking down the street and the smell of freshly baked bread transports you to Sunday dinners growing up.  You're with your family as if time itself has stood still.

That is the power of your subconscious mind.  It has the ability to associate external stimulus (i.e. smells, tastes, sounds, etc.) with warm and pleasant memories.

When properly directed, hypnosis can serve as an effective tool to harness these wonderful feelings to effectively mitigate stress, and improve physical and emotional well-being.

This evening I visited with a woman who from an outsider's view is the definition of exceptional.  Stunning, smart, personable and professionally successful.

Yet, like many of us, she has been challenged to manage a stressful environment and address long-standing self-esteem issues.

We went through a relaxing hypnotic induction which provided a stress release.  After a couple of deepening exercises, I then walked her through two visualizations:

1)  Opening a door to a warm, glow of light to establish base feelings of confidence, comfort and strength.

2) A memory of a time in her life when she recognized and embraced her beauty, intelligence and appeal.  We then attached this feeling in her subconscious mind to a special phrase, which we then reinforced through a mantra.  (It's a process similar to the "umms" during yoga.)

After such a positive experience, I believe hypnosis will serve as a tool she can use to find a higher plain of happiness in life.

For me, it was equally rewarding.  I realize I'm not curing cancer.  Yet, helping one person truly appreciate how wonderful they are is gratifying.  

Visualize a warm glow of light to establish feelings of comfort and confidence.  Image source: cgmotionbox.com

My Call for Stress Busting

I have written frequently on this blog about the adverse impact of stress on our emotional and physical well-being. 

Stress is negative energy and our body seeks to shed it in unhealthy ways.  For many, this can present near-term issues, such as headaches, chest pain, upset stomach and poor sleeping habits.

While this impacts quality of life, it pales in comparison to the long-term damage stress can potentially inflict.  The headline of an article published this week in the Health and Science section of the Washington Post says it all:  "Stress is linked to heart attack and such problems as diabetes and depression."

"Yet another study has been released linking stress to an increased risk of having a heart attack.  The reseach found that women with high-stress jobs...were 67 percent more likely to have a heart attack than women in less-intense jobs."

I've hosted events to teach self-hypnosis as a tool for stress mitigation.  I have also offered up easy-to-follow approaches that can be used daily for stress mitigation.

Regardless of whether hypnosis is right for you, I encourage you to find an activity that is both enjoyable and a stress buster.  Run...swim...practice yoga...take up sculpture...write music...sing...dance...just find your thing!   

What Does It Feel Like to be Hypnotized?

The feeling of hypnosis is unique for each person.

One of my volunteers was surrounded by her friends who peppered her with questions.  What did it feel like?  Do you remember anything?  Are you sleepy?

I had just completed a performance of my "Hypnotic Experience" show at the Bradley Farm Haunted House festival and the volunteers continued to be the stars of the evening.  I watched as a few of them relayed to friends their experiences while hypnotized.

It's a frequent question I'm asked as well when people learn I am a hypnotist:  what does it feel like to be hypnotized?

Even having worked with hundreds of people during the past five years, it's a hard question to answer.  That's because hypnosis is very much a personal experience.

Yet, I just came across an article in the San Francisco Chronicle in which a young woman who practices self-hypnosis does an exceptional job of describing how she feels while hypnotized.  Here is a link and an excerpt:


Hypnosis is Akin to Intense Focus 

If you're reading a book and you're really into reading that book and the rest of the world sort of disappears, you don't realize how fast time is passing, someone could call your name and you don't hear - hypnosis is actually similar to that, but instead of focusing on the TV you're watching or the book you're reading or the project you're working on, you're focusing on what's going on inside your head and what's going on inside your body.

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/health/article/Hypnosis-is-akin-to-intense-focus-3975730.php#ixzz2DiUMad6D

If you're reading a book and you're really into reading that book and the rest of the world sort of disappears, you don't realize how fast time is passing, someone could call your name and you don't hear - hypnosis is actually similar to that, but instead of focusing on the TV you're watching or the book you're reading or the project you're working on, you're focusing on what's going on inside your head and what's going on inside your body.

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/health/article/Hypnosis-is-akin-to-intense-focus-3975730.php#ixzz2DiUMad6D

 

If you're reading a book and you're really into reading that book and the rest of the world sort of disappears, you don't realize how fast time is passing, someone could call your name and you don't hear - hypnosis is actually similar to that, but instead of focusing on the TV you're watching or the book you're reading or the project you're working on, you're focusing on what's going on inside your head and what's going on inside your body.

Preparation and Professionalism Define My Performances

I'm taking a volunteer deeper into hypnosis during a performance at Bradley Farm.

During the past three months I've performed "Hypnotic Experience" for quite a diverse set of audiences.

There was the nearly 200 Georgetown University students at the Midnight Carnival that welcomed undergrads back to campus in early September.  That show drew a rave review from the organizer.

That same weekend I demonstrated the stress busting and academic enhancing powers of hypnosis for a dozen high school students.

I was back in front of a larger audience of more than 150 in late October for two performances at the Bradley Farm Haunted House community festival in Herndon, Virginia.  It was perhaps my most entertaining shows of the year as the adults, teenagers and tweens who volunteered demonstrated a wonderful creative spirit.

And just before Thanksgiving I shared the art of self-hypnosis for nearly 25 attendees at an event sponsored by Professionals in the City.  You can find my recap of the event here and a testimonial from one of the participants at this link.

As we roll into December, my attention turns to preparations for two performances I have on the calendar.  The first is a private party on December 8th to be followed by a profile gig on December 31st at the Capital Hilton in Washington, DC.  I anticipate several hundred to be in attendance at the New Year's Eve bash where I'll perform.

Regardless of the size and make-up of a performance, a successful outing ultimately comes down to a simple concept:  shared expectations with the event organizer and audience.

Are they looking for fun and entertainment?  Is the interest more educational?  Is it about stress management, and emotional and physical well being?  A combination of these things?

I spend time with the event organizer prior to the show and, if at all possible, conduct a site visit.  I also engage with the audience prior to starting a hypnotic induction as part of my pre-talk.

I'm all about preparation and professionalism when I perform Hypnotic Experience.  The organizer and audience will accept nothing less.
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Are you hosting an event, community festival, fundraiser, school activity, party or get together with friends?  I encourage you to call me at (301) 538-8100 or Email m.russell.hausman@gmail.com to learn more about "Hypnotic Experience."  
   

Research Reports on Health Through Hypnosis

The initial five minutes of my "Hypnotic Experience" show are perhaps the most important part of the performance. 

My pre-talk is both entertaining and informative as I define hypnosis and set expectations of what's to come during the show -- for both the volunteers and the audience.  I also overview the the emotional and physical benefits derived from the practice of self-hypnosis.  (Yes...I teach self-hypnosis in a small group setting or one-on-one.)

It's at this time I typically share with the audience that with the exception of modest bout of stomach flu earlier this year I have not been sick in three years.  No colds.  No infections.  Nothing.

I practice smart health and hygiene by eating right, sleeping well at night, frequently washing my hands and visiting doctor.  Yet, I'm also convinced my good fortune is the result of mitigating the impact of stress through hypnosis.

Now there is legitimate research from Ohio State University that supports this notion.  A new study recently published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology found that "hypnosis and related relaxation techniques can actually prevent the weakening of the immune response that often follows periods of acute stress."

There's a nice overview of the research and its findings in this article entitled "Hypnosis May Prevent Weakened Immune System, Improve Health." 

I encourage you to keep eating an apple a day, take your vitamin C and drink plenty of water.  Plus, you may want to explore incorporating self-hypnosis into your wellness routine.  You'll be healthier and happier this winter.   

 

Image Source:  Definition of Wellness

Impressions from the "Hypnosis for Exceptional Living" Event

It was quite an eclectic group that gathered this evening in Washington, DC for my "Hypnosis for Exceptional Living" demonstration, hosted in partnership with Professionals in the City.

There were several college-aged students seeking how to balance the pressures of social and academic responsibilities.  Interestingly, each was joined by a parent who I suspect encouraged their attendance.

Also in the room were a half dozen guys in the 25 to 40 age range who were challenged with either ongoing minor physical distress (i.e. back or neck pain) and/or difficulty sleeping at night.

And finally, a group of women who varied in age, yet were intrigued by a new approach for stress management and overall emotional and physical well-being.

Two of the attendees had prior experience with hypnosis.  A woman had spent time with a hypnotherapist and came away with a positive view of how it influenced her life.  One of the gentlemen had volunteered for a stage hypnosis show, acknowledging he merely played along with the suggestions.  

Here is a recap of my observations and impressions of the evening:

1)  It was a nervous group at the start.  Most of the attendees came after work and didn't know each other.  Adding to the tension was the fact that the hypnotic process is a somewhat personal one in which a participant can feel exposed.

I went to great length to build rapport with each attendee and lighten the mood through a series of  entertaining anecdotes from my stage hypnosis shows and stand-up comedy performance.  The results were so-so.  (I may not be as funny as I'd like to think.)

Additionally, I extended my introductory talk about hypnosis from its usual 15 minutes in length to nearly half an hour.  My goal was to educate about the power of positive visualization while building credibility and authority for my role as the hypnotist.

2)  I took the attendees through an extended hypnotic induction that lasted about 20 minutes.  I also used several deepeners through visualization and physical touch (i.e. dropping 20 times deeper with a slight touch on the shoulder).

Hypnosis for stress mitigation.

Unlike a stage hypnosis show in which the induction is merely a gateway to the entertainment, the purpose of this event was to inform about hypnosis as a tool.  I wanted each attendee to enjoy the process.

3)  Did it work?  Well...kind of.  The majority of participants did achieve a baseline level of hypnosis.  Simple suggestions related to "sleep" and "heavy eyes" worked well and presented a foundation for me to move to post-hypnotic instructions for stress relief and a positive view of life.

I then worked with the group to introduce their own voice into the process through a mental countdown from the number of 20.  This was a bridge for a discussion about self-hypnosis.

4)  The feedback from the group during the post hypnosis Q&A was generally positive.  A couple of participants expressed disappointment the session could not be tailored to a specific need (i.e. weight management),  Yet, each understood the purpose was more of a general introduction to hypnosis.

5)  A handful of attendees then stuck around for a few minutes for a second hypnotic induction which also went OK...not great.  Again, most responded well to simple suggestions like "heavy hands," however everyone failed to act on a more complex suggestion.

At this point, we had been together for nearly two hours and, admittedly, it's a challenge for a person to maintain focus and concentration for such an extended period of time.

We concluded with a visualization called "Wash the Pain Away" that encourages physical well being.

All in all, I am pleased with the event.  A group session certainly presents a unique set of challenges, however I had an opportunity to meet exceptional individuals who were open to and engaged in a discussion about hypnosis.

Plus, I continue to learn about how people perceive hypnosis and their expectations for its use as a tool to impact quality of life.

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If you attended the Professionals in the City event and are interested in continuing to explore hypnosis, please Email me at m.russell.hausman@gmail.com or call me at (301) 538-8100.  Perhaps we can arrange a follow-on meeting which I will happily do at no charge.

I'm also interested in demonstrations and performances to small gatherings of friends, groups, parties and clubs. 

A Great Read on Hypnosis

Each week I typically come across interesting articles that accurately capture how hypnosis can be used as a tool for emotional and physical well being.  I share them on Twitter, so I encourage you to follow me here.

The story below is one of the best I've read in a long while.  Why?

It accurately defines hypnosis and a hypnotic induction (i.e. no swinging watch), and then illustrates the most important factor when it comes to a positive experience -- the person has to be open and interested in achieving a meaningful change.

At the start of every session or performance of my "Hypnotic Experience" show, I explain that all of hypnosis is self-hypnosis.  There's no magic to it.  Hypnosis is simply conditioning the mind to anticipate and accept positive outcomes.   


How Hypnosis Helped Me Sleep
By Linda Yellin
More Magazine

A few hypnosis sessions helped one writer finally remedy her insomnia.

Pathway to Success, Achieving Confidence Through Hypnosis

A successful business presentation requires confidence.  Can hypnosis help a person achieve this mind-set?  Photo Source:  123rf.com.

Success in academic pursuits, athletic competition and career advancement is very much determined by confidence.  

Confidence is merely a state of mind defined by the honest, raw and all consuming belief that you are talented, skilled, focused and well prepared.  I will ace this test.  I'm going to be sharp during my presentation at work.  The game is at a critical point...I will make this free throw.

Of course, it's easier to aspire to then actually achieve this mindset.  That's because our conscious mind -- where rational thought and critical decision-making exists -- spends much of its time telling us why we cannot achieve things.

Can hypnosis help instill confidence, thereby inspiring a person to be more successful in life?

A few weeks back I met with a woman in her mid-20s who is pursuing a career in sales.  She has a world of natural ability and talent -- attractive, likeable, intelligent and strategic.

Yet, a lack of confidence had hindered her success when it came time to make a presentation to a prospective customer.  Her fall back was to typically bring a more experienced colleague to the pitch meeting and then shrink away by failing to interject her thoughts into the discussion.

After rapidly achieving a state of hypnosis, I asked her to visualize herself leading a new business presentation.  She pictured the audience responding well to her pitch, and respecting her knowledge about the product and the industry.  She imagined addressing questions (even the tough ones) in a calm and poised manner.

As we concluded the hypnotic experience, I encouraged her to think about how a successful business presentation had made her feel positive and comfortable.  And that this feeling of confidence will define all aspects of her life -- professional and personal.

Did this help her?  We'll see...I anticipate meeting with her again in December. 

Hypnosis is not magic as a person must have the talent, ability and discipline to prepare.  Yet, by conditioning the mind to accept success as the outcome, a sense of confidence can absolutely be realized.

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If you live in the Washington, DC area, please check out the event I'm hosting in partnership with Professionals in the City on Monday, November 19th in Georgetown.  It is entitled "Hypnosis: a Positive Approach for Exceptional Living."  You can find a 1/2 off registration deal at this link.

Hypnosis Skeptic Finds It "Amazing"

This past Friday was a much needed day of relaxation at the Rosen Shingle Creek Hotel and Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.  I had arrived at the hotel on Tuesday for a conference and my wife joined me on Thursday to celebrate our 13^th anniversary.

We spent Friday lounging at the pool where I struck up a conversation with a group of three women who were nurses visiting from Syracuse, New York.  We got to talking about the issue of pain management and they mentioned the medical practice they work for encourages certain patients to seek holistic alternatives to medication.

The nurses mentioned acupuncture, yoga and meditation as options.  I inquired about hypnosis to which one of the nurses quickly dismissed the practice as merely a bunch of mind tricks.  “I’m way skeptical about it even being real,” she said.

She agreed to try a hypnotic induction and within 10 minutes I got her to a point of deep concentration, relaxation and focus.  I then took her through a couple of simple suggestions, including heavy hands and forgotten first name.

Upon bringing her out of a trance, I left her with two post-hypnotic suggestions: 1) feeling incredibly relaxed and stress free; and 2) having a positive view of her experience in hypnosis and always referring to it as “amazing.”

When she re-joined her friends by the pool they both asked if it worked.  I nodded my head as she responded, “It is amazing…and definitely real.”

The hypnotist celebrating a 13th anniversary with his beautiful wife.

Hypnosis for Well-Being Performance Set for November 19

The Washington, DC area escaped Hurricane Sandy's wrath.  There was a lot of rain and a bit of wind, yet the damage was minimal.

We were lucky when you consider the plight of New York, New Jersey and other coastal communities on the east coast.

It turned out to be more of a precautionary move for local groups and social organizations to cancel their activities on October 29th and 30th.  One of those cancellations was my "Hypnotic Experience" performance in partnership with Professionals in the City.

Good news!  The performance is back on the calendar for Monday, November 19th at MOCA Gallery in Washington, DC.  Here is a link to the promotional page with a description of the event.

I'll introduce hypnosis, talk through its use as a tool for emotional and physical well-being, take volunteers through a hypnotic induction, and then share a couple of suggestions that will encourage good health.  For those interested, I will then do a brief session to teach self-hypnosis.

If you have ever had an interest in hypnosis, I encourage you to sign up and attend this event.  In fact, you can use the promotional code Hypnosis 11353 when registering and receive a $5 discount. 

These volunteers at my "Hypnotic Experience" performance demonstrate the wonderful feeling of relaxation achieved through hypnosis.

No Zen in Boozing Away Stress

The economy, politics, parenting and personal issues have left a myriad of Washingtonians in search of Zen-ful peace. 

Some have found balance by participating in a free, community meditation session run by Tara Brach, a Buddhist meditation teacher and pyschologist.  Others have turned to an over-abundance of alcohol and other more destructive behaviors.

The Washington Post reported on both this weekend in an article entitled Capital Strains.  It's an excellent read.

In this blog I've shared my view on the importance of stress management for emotional and physical well being.  Stress is negative energy that the body will shed.  It's up to each of us to take ownership of the removal process. 

Whether it's yoga, acupuncture, meditation, running, swimming or (as I promote) hypnosis, I encourage people to explore a natural, healthy approach to stress mitigation.  It is so much more effective and beneficial than finding relief in a bottle of booze.

The Zen-ful Tara Brach runs a community meditation session to help Washingtonians de-stress.

Photos from Bradley Farm Hypnosis Show

Thanks to the folks at Bradley Farm Haunted House festival, I am able to share a wonderful set of photos from the performance of my "Hypnotic Experience" show this past Saturday night.

I've included a caption with each photo to explain the image and how it fits into the show.

The introductory talk prior to a hypnotic induction sets expectations for what is to come.  It also gives me a chance to share a few entertaining stories to create a fun atmosphere.

I encourage audience members who chose not to volunteer to experience a hypnotic induction as well.  It's incredibly relaxing and can help shed stress.  The three women to my left went into hypnosis, although when asked did not express an interest in joining the show.

My visual focus is typically on the volunteers on stage.  I am constantly looking for signs of hypnosis to determine which volunteers will remain for the show.  However, I direct suggestions to the audience as well.

Two of the on-stage volunteers.  The young lady on the left went deep into hypnosis and was a wonderful participant in the show.  Her reaction to the "American Idol" skit was a highlight.

Once in hypnosis a simple touch on the shoulder coupled with a suggestion helps a volunteer go deeper.

This volunteer slipped in and out of hypnosis during the show.  At times, even a slight distraction can impact how someone reacts to a suggestion.

Nearly 30 volunteers on stage made for a crowded environment.  I always take as many volunteers as possible.  However, I have to move quickly to excuse people who have trouble reaching hypnosis during the induction to allow for more space.

Young adults and teenagers typically make for excellent volunteers.  They are able to focus, they're use to following direction and they are creative with strong imaginations.

With parental approval, I encourage younger kids to give hypnosis a try.  However, I rarely take them on stage because the inability to focus can be an issue.

Pre-Talk Takes the "Scare" Out of Hypnosis

Is hypnosis mind control?  Magic?  Mental trickier?

These are questions I am often asked when my work as a hypnotist comes up in a social environment or when I'm promoting my "Hypnotic Experience" show to event attendees just prior to getting on stage.  In fact, this past weekend at the Bradley Farm Haunted House festival a young woman wanted to know if I would have little dolls in my performance.

Why?  Because hypnosis is voodoo, she explained.

Yesterday, I connected with a person who represents corporate entertainers and speakers.  We exchanged a couple of notes before she hit me with this missive when explaining that she doesn't anticipate many performance opportunities for me. 

Hi Marc. I find Hypnosis to be  a very hard sell. People seem afraid of it. I do book a mentalist on occasions-but not often.

The pre-talk before a performance or individual session is an important time for a hypnotist to ensure a positive experience.  The pre-talk goals are to:

1) Define what hypnosis is (and isn't).

2) Introduce the positive ways hypnosis can impact a person's life (i.e. stress management, career or academic achievement, athletic performance, etc.).

3) Set ground rules for the performance or session to ensure a high level of comfort.

A successful pre-talk sets the stage for a wonderful and memorable show, or a session that meets all expectations.  After my pre-talk at the Bradley Farm shows, I was presented with more volunteers than I could accept because of the size of the stage.

They concluded there is nothing scary about hypnosis.

My "Hypnotic Experience" show demonstrates the power of creativity and visualization.  This volunteer at Bradley Farm introduces me to her shoe puppy she named "Fluffy."

     

Bravo for Bradley Farm

A wonderful group of enthusiastic and creative volunteers...

...enter a deep state of hypnosis with the sleep suggestion.

This weekend I had the pleasure of performing my "Hypnotic Experience" show at the Bradley Farm Haunted House festival in Herndon, Virginia.  Proceeds from the event will be donated to Herndon-Reston FISH, a non-profit that provides support to families in short term crisis.

Here are a couple of observations from my Friday and Saturday evening shows:

--A successful community event or festival requires a high level of attention to detail by the organizers.  In the case of Bradley Farm, everyone was professional, easy-to-work with and clear in their communication of expectations.  What's even more impressive is the event is put on solely by volunteers.

--It's a challenge to perform a show at a festival because of the activity, noise and distraction.  It can make it tough for a volunteer to achieve the focus required to enter a hypnotic state.  As such, I employ a simple demonstration of the power of visualization at the start of the show to establish credibility with the audience and to identify potential participants.

--I was fortunate to have an eager group of volunteers at both the Friday and Saturday evening shows.  During my introductory talk I define hypnosis, clear up misperceptions and share a few ways hypnosis can positively impact quality of life (i.e. stress management, test taking performance and athletic achievement).  Once people learn a bit about hypnosis there tends to be a lot of interest in experiencing an induction.

--I always keep in mind that community festival and event attendees are there to be entertained.  I incorporate anecdotes in my presentation and make the suggestions funny (yet never embarrassing).  Perhaps the biggest hit this weekend was having the volunteers visualize they were competing in the Bradley Farm American Idol competition for $10,000.           

--I did have volunteers in each show achieve a deep state of hypnosis.  Friday was a better because the group was comprised primarily of teenagers and young adults.  They tend to have vivid imaginations, the ability to focus and are comfortable following directions.  Many of the volunteers on Saturday were tweens and kids under the age of 10.  This age group tends to lose focus fairly quickly. 

Many thanks to the folks at Bradley Farm for a great weekend.  I hope I'm invited back next year!


PS  I'd like to remind everyone who attended the "Hypnotic Experience" show that I am available for parties, social events, small groups, school functions, SAT and test prep, and athletic/team performance sessions.  You can reach me by Email at m.russell.hausman@gmail.com or by phone at (301) 538-8100.

Going Caffeine-Free with Hypnosis

High doses of caffeine is not a sustainable way to be energized in life.

I just read an interesting article in the New York Times about the concerns and risks associated with the rapidly increasing consumption of high caffeine energy drinks such as Monster, Red Bull and Rockstar.  Here's a link.

Of particular note is the use of these products by teenagers as a strategy to cram in studying, after school activities and social obligations.  They cut out sleep and then reply on high doses of caffeine to remain attentive.

Since incorporating self-hypnosis into my life about six years ago I have removed caffeine from my diet, with the exception of the occasional chocolate bar.  Plus, hypnosis helps me manage my sleep schedule to function at a high level with as little as five hours of rest a night.  (I only do this for two or three days at a time as I typically need six to seven hours of sleep.)

Hypnosis is NOT a replacement for healthy living or medical care.  Yet, a person can use it as a tool to condition their mind to achieve remarkable outcomes without the need for massive intakes of caffeine.

Rapid Relaxation: the 30 Second Decompress

Do you ever wish you take a breath from your hectic schedule for just a few moments?  If so, you're not alone.  

I read an interesting article in Forbes yesterday entitled Forget Work-Life Balance: It's Time for Work-Life Blend.  The author's premise is straightforward:  mobile and Web 2.0 communications have created an expectation that people should be accessible and engaged at all times day or night.

An always on environment can be incredibly draining -- emotionally and physically.  Most people recognize the need to mitigate stress, yet soothing activities can eat up time on an already compressed schedule. 

For instance, I very much enjoy the practice of yoga, but I simply cannot block out 90 minutes three or four days a week to drive to, participate in and then shower after class.  It's a real challenge.

Many of the individuals who express an interest in learning self-hypnosis gravitate to a rapid relaxation visualization that I teach.  It's designed to quickly reduce stress and tension, while creating a feeling of positive energy that will carry a person through the rest of their day.  

Here's how it works:    

--Take a deep breath and close your eyes.

--Picture yourself floating on a white, fluffy cloud; safe, peaceful and warm.

--Count backwards slowly from ten sinking deeper into the cloud with each number.

--Visualize yourself surrounded by a wonderful and energizing light and count up one, two and three.

--Take a deep breath and open your eyes.

The calming affect of the cloud.  Source:  ScenicReflections.com

The Perfect Entertainment for this Year's Holiday Party

Next weekend I return to the stage with an appearance on both Friday and Saturday night at the Bradley Farm Haunted Mansion festival in Herndon, Virginia. 

Admission is $5 which gets you access to a scary (yet family friendly) haunted house and an impressive line-up of entertainment -- which includes a DJ, bands, magician, dance teams and me with my Hypnotic Experience show.  Plus, proceeds from the event benefit a not-for-profit organization that provides support to families that have experienced a crisis.

Performing at events, fundraisers, community festivals, high school homecoming and prom celebrations, and parties is a lot of fun.  It gives me an opportunity to share the wonderful benefits of hypnosis with a large group of people in a relaxed and entertaining environment.

It also helps me fulfill my desire to perform.  Yes...I've taken a stab at stand-up comedy and found it incredibly challenging, which is a nice way for me to write that I bombed.  It is a whole lot of work to be laugh out loud funny with all eyes in the room on you.

Rather than a traditional comedy club hypnosis show, my Hypnotic Experience is a demonstration of hypnosis for stress management, career achievement, health/well being and a bit of fun.  Think of it as hypnosis for physical and emotional well being presented in an entertaining fashion as I incorporate funny anecdotes and perhaps a joke or two.

If you are responsible for selecting entertainment for a holiday party (office or personal), community event or fundraiser, consider the following about hypnosis:



1.  It's unique and memorable

2.  The guests who want to participate are the stars of the show

3.  It is easy to organize, requires very little set up and can be scheduled around other activities and entertainment

4.  The content is very appropriate for a family-oriented environment

5.  Guests can capture photos and videos of the show, and then share them with family and friends (makes for wonderful memories)

I am here by Email at m.russell.hausman@gmail.com if you'd like to learn more.

Hypnosis is a crowd pleasing entertainment option.

Tween Athletes: Is Hypnosis Beneficial?

Should competitive youth athletic programs include training in mental preparation as a complement to physical conditioning and skill development?

That's a question that came up yesterday on the soccer field as I watched my son's travel team.  I chatted with the parents of another player who also have a fifth grade daughter who competes in gymnastics.  Her practice schedule includes three sessions a week each of which run four hours in length.

That is an intense commitment for an 11-year-old, who has to balance gymnastics with her participation in other sports, school work and social activities.  Plus, her parents talked about the emotional aspect of gymnastics because it involves a highly physical skill set with a potential risk of injury.

In fact, if I recall correctly, the parents mentioned that several of the gymnasts already spend time with a sports psychologist as part of their training. 

I have written extensively on this blog about my work with high school and college level athletes helping them raise the level of performance through hypnosis.  Here are links to a few posts worth checking out:

Hypnosis for Exceptional Athletic Performance

Beach Hypnosis

Hypnosis Helps a Newly Minted College Athlete

Hypnosis for Hoops


I am cautious about the use of hypnosis for any one under the age of 16.  A positive hypnotic experience requires a level of concentration and focus that may elude this younger set because of simple maturity.

Yet, some basic positive visualizations for a young athlete could be incredibly beneficial.  It could spur confidence and instill important feelings of accomplishment.

Positive visualization can improve performance.  Source: Gymnastics Revolution

  

Embracing Life Phases

It's fair to say my exploration of hypnosis as a tool for physical and emotional well being is a mid-life crisis. 

About five years ago I entered a new phase in life personally and professionally, and realized I needed to act on a long-standing interest I harbored in alternative approaches to health.  I reasoned, "If not now...when?"
 
I have also come to recognize hypnosis can serve as a vehicle to help me pursue another long-standing desire -- comedy entertainment.

Yes, I gave straight stand-up comedy a shot and completely bombed.  In fact, I got booed off stage at a free open mic performance.  It was quite humbling.

With my "Hypnotic Experience" show I have developed a unique approach that combines an informative and educational discussion about the power of hypnosis with good fun and entertainment.  My recent performance at Georgetown University was a success and I have gigs lined up this month at the Bradley Farm Haunted Mansion festival and at an event sponsored by Professionals in the City.

Life phases are real and meaningful.  My wife has been incredibly supportive of my endeavors and I think at some level is thankful I decided not to buy a sports car and get hair plugs.  That would have been too cliche.

I've been thinking a lot about life phases since meeting an exceptional young woman yesterday.  She too is in a phase as she transitions to young adulthood, and deals with issues related to career goals, life aspirations and redefined relationships with family and peers.

She also happens to be a truly gifted and creative writer who has the unique ability to emotionally connect with a reader.  I encourage you to block out 15 minutes to click through and read the blog post I have included below.  It's a wonderfully intense experience and captures the emotional toll a life phase has on a person -- both good and bad.

The writing is a bit too much stream of consciousness and the paragraph structure is raw.  That will evolve and mature in time.  Talent is talent though and good heavens does this woman have it.

I introduced her to hypnosis yesterday and suggested that it could be a tool to help her effectively channel her creativity into meaningful outputs (i.e. poetry, short stories, screenplays, song writing, etc.).  I hope she explores this further with me.


Follow Your Intuition

Excerpt

I was unable to see how my mother’s relationship with her own mother affected and influenced the way that she interacted with me for so long. I had mistakenly thought that she was un-nurturing, not wanting me in her life. I internalized that and began to believe that I was incapable of being a nurturing person and genuinely loving something or someone. I couldn’t even bring myself to say the words that my best friend and boyfriend of 4 years needed to hear so that he knew how I felt. I was selfish and stubborn, and I resented my mom for not showering me with the “I love you’s” that everyone else had. I blamed her for my own ruined relationship…and I ran away from home for a number of years because I believed that the easy was the best thing for me.

Halloween Hypnosis in Herndon

A zombie you will not see at my Halloween performance.  Photo:  MediaBistro.

Scary zombies will be on the prowl this month when AMC's show "The Walking Dead" returns for its third season on Sunday evening, October 14th.

Twelve days later I suspect a collection of more polite and good natured zombies will arrive on stage at the Bradley Farm Haunted House festival in Herndon, Virginia.  That's because my "Hypnotic Experience" show is set for Friday evening, October 26th and Saturday the 27th at 9 PM.

After an informative discussion about the positive benefits of self-hypnosis, I'll take volunteers through a hypnotic induction and then demonstrate the power of visualization.  My most favorite Halloween-themed skit is to have the hypnotized imagine they are at the festival to audition for the role of a friendly and fun loving zombie.

I encourage you to come on out to Herndon for this wonderful community event.  Five dollars at the door gets you in to enjoy all of the activities and entertainment, and to check out the truly spooky haunted house.  Plus, all of the proceeds benefit Herndon-Reston FISH, a local not-for-profit that helps families through short-term crisis.

Just a reminder that I am also hosting in partnership with a group called Professionals in the City a seminar entitled "Hypnosis:  a Positive Approach to Exceptional Living" on Monday, October 29th at 7 PM in Washington, DC.  You can learn more at this link and get a promotional code for $5 off admission.

A Simple Life

My wife and I purchased a state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly digital washing machine.

It is one super sexy appliance.  Its design is sleek and compact, and it uses nearly 70 percent less water.  It also sports a control panel with nearly 25 water level and temperature options.

We got it home from the store, hired a company to install it and then sat back to watch the washer wash.  Three weeks in our home and the digital control panel needed a replacement part.  Then one of the water temperature sensors failed.  Then a load balance mechanism became unbalanced.

After three months of constant repairs I asked our service vendor if this was typical for this type of washer.  "Oh yes," he replied.  "The more complex the appliance, the more likely it is to break.  Admittedly, it has been great for our business."

The next day we jettisoned the super advanced washer for a significantly more pedestrian model.  Our clothes have never been cleaner.

It's not sexy, yet our new washer fulfills its role without the need for constant repairs.

Our washer experience served as a reminder about the importance of simplicity in life.  I focus my time, efforts and energy on three primary activities:  family, career and physical/emotional well being.

Yes...the world is complex and every day requirements can certainly stir up stress.  However, by always coming back to "my three" and using a tool like hypnosis to manage the stress, I tend to run as well as my new washer.

Are You Easily Hypnotized?

The easily hypnotized share common characteristics.  Photo:  John Arrowwood Hypnotherapy.

I quickly learned upon launching my study of hypnosis that some people rapidly fall into a hypnotic trance, while others fail to ever achieve a high level of suggest-ability.  

Here's a link to an interesting article published yesterday in the Los Angeles Times' Health Section that explores that very issue:

Could Hypnosis Help You?  Yes, If You Have the Brain For It

A research team from Stanford University scanned the brain of 12 individuals who are highly hypnotizable and then compared the results to scans of 12 people who are not easily hypnotized.  The brains proved to be similar in characteristics, yet those from the hypnotizable group demonstrated a higher level of activity in a region of the brain that is active when the mind is at rest.

Psychiatrist David, Spiegel, one of the authors, summed up the findings when he explained to the LA Times the easily hypnotized "can harness their minds to imagine something about themselves -- and make it so."

When performing at an event, party, festival or outing the challenge I face is how to effectively identify the easily hypnotizable when seeking volunteers.  I employ a couple of different methods which include:

1) An introductory talk to explain hypnosis, its positive benefits and how it is an effective tool for those with a strong and creative mind (i.e. artists, writers, athletes, students, etc.).  This is designed to establish comfort and trust between the hypnotist and the crowd.

2) A demonstration of the power of visualization that involves "heavy/light hands" and "magnet hands" scenarios.

I watch closely to see who in the crowd responds well and then I select them if they volunteer.  As this Stanford University research indicates, I typically choose a set of volunteers whose brains all share common characteristics.

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October Event: Hypnosis - a Positive Approach to Exceptional Living

A few weeks back I connected with an organization called Professionals in the City to talk about including my "Hypnotic Experience" show as part of the entertainment line-up for their New Year's Eve event.  Admittedly, I assumed this was just another one of those singles groups that organizes parties, speed dating events, vacation trips and other social activities.

Yes...Professionals in the City does those things for its more than 200,000 members and they do them well.  In fact, they organize, promote and present 1,000 events a year for adults of all ages. 

Yet, the organization also produces an eclectic mix of events designed to enhance the professional and personal success of its members.  For instance, last night Professionals in the City hosted a panel discussion entitled "How to Start Your Own Business."  It featured four exceptional entrepreneurs.

That's why I am thrilled to have partnered with Professionals in the City to create an event that will focus on the use of hypnosis as a tool to achieve positive outcomes in life -- personal and professional.  The event is scheduled for the evening of Monday, October 29th in Washington, DC and you can register here.

Plus, if you use the promotional code Hypnosis11292 when registering, you'll receive $5 off of tickets purchased in advance.

Included below is a detailed description of the event.  I hope you can attend!


Hypnosis: A Positive Approach to Exceptional Living

WHEN: Monday, October 29, 2012 from 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM

WHERE: MOCA DC Galleries 1054 31st St NW in Canal Square Washington, DC 20007-4403 Closest Metro: Foggy Bottom

PRICE: $30.00 if purchased by 5 p.m. Friday, October 05

An Introduction to Self-Hypnosis: A Positive Approach for Relaxation, Stress Management, Career Achievement and Exceptional Living

Hypnosis...it's a powerful word that defines a process that few understand. Put aside the image of a swinging watch or comedy club antics because that is not what this seminar is about.

Our speaker will explain how hypnosis can be used as a tool to relax, to better manage stressful situations, to improve well-being, to increase career or academic focus, and, simply put, to achieve more fulfillment out of life. If you enjoy yoga, meditation, acupuncture or other alternative approaches to health, then you will want to give hypnosis a try.

As part of the seminar, our speaker will walk you through a hypnotic induction process with positive visualizations so you feel refreshed, stress-free and completely energized. He'll then share the practice of self-hypnosis and how you can incorporate this approach to well being into everyday life to:

• Reduce the negative impact of stress
  
• Sleep better at night
  
• Enhance focus on the job or at school
  
• Be more patient with family and friends
  

Our speaker has practiced and taught self-hypnosis for more than five years. He performs his "Hypnotic Experience" show at community festivals, events, parties and for small groups.