← All episodes Episode 39 · Focus & Attention

What Hypnosis Actually Is (Not What You Think)

Hypnosis & Salience

Forget stage tricks. Real hypnosis is a measurable brain state used in actual medicine, and you can train it.

The Science

Jiang et al. (Cerebral Cortex, 2017): fMRI scans during clinical hypnosis show decreased activity in the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, a key node of the salience network, alongside increased functional connectivity between the executive control network and the insula. The critic quiets while focus tightens.
Spiegel (Depression and Anxiety, 2013): clinical hypnosis is a well-replicated neurobiological state characterized by intense focused attention and reduced peripheral awareness, with measurable effects on pain, anxiety, and habit modification.
Elkins et al. (International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 2015): the revised APA definition emphasizes hypnosis as a state of focused attention and suggestibility, NOT loss of control or unconsciousness.
Used clinically for: pain management, habit change (smoking cessation), sleep, anxiety, IBS, and pre-surgical prep.

Try a clinically designed self-hypnosis recording. Reveri is one option built by a Stanford researcher (Dr. David Spiegel).
Pick ONE goal: sleep, focus, or stress reduction.
Run a 10–15 minute session daily for one week before evaluating.
Posture: comfortable, not lying flat. Headphones help.

Right-click → Save As to download. Or scan the QR code in the corner to come back here from print.

Jiang, H., White, M. P., Greicius, M. D., Waelde, L. C., & Spiegel, D. (2017). "Brain activity and functional connectivity associated with hypnosis." Cerebral Cortex, 27(8): 4083-4093.
Spiegel, D. (2013). "Tranceformations: Hypnosis in Brain and Body." Depression and Anxiety, 30(4): 342-352.
Elkins, G. R., Barabasz, A. F., Council, J. R., & Spiegel, D. (2015). "Advancing research and practice: the revised APA Division 30 definition of hypnosis." International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, 63(1): 1-9.

Educational content only. Not medical advice.

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