Here is an article discussing the distinction and overlaps between hypnosis and meditation. I've copied and pasted the abstract and linked to the rest of the article

"Meditation and hypnosis might be regarded as involving similar processes and skills. For example, both meditation and hypnosis are associated with high levels of absorption and imaginative capac- ity, and both can be used for self-regulation. Research has also shown that meditation improves attentional functioning, and that hypnotic response can involve attentional strategies. However, we argue that hypnosis and mindfulness meditation are essentially di erent. Crucially, hypnotic experience results from a lack of awareness of mental states (speci cally, of intentions); by contrast, mindfulness meditation aims to develop accurate meta-awareness. Hypnosis is a form of self de- ception; meditation a way of getting to know your mind. We discuss the empirical relation of both meditation and hypnosis to higher order awareness of mental states, and suggest further research."

[www.lifesci.sussex.ac.uk]