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]

That is a school of thought, yes. However, it doesn't address the issues of hypnotic phenomena that can't happen without hypnosis being real, such as automatic ideomotor and ideosensory phenomena, nor does it explain the efficacy of indirect hypnosis. One of my teachers produced a theory called the implicit neural activation and information processing theory. I think it's worth checking out

Certainly! Meditation and hypnosis are both practices that involve altered states of consciousness, but they have distinct differences.

Meditation is a mindful practice focused on achieving a state of deep relaxation and inner peace. It typically involves techniques such as breath awareness, mindfulness, or mantra repetition to quiet the mind and cultivate awareness.

On the other hand, hypnosis is a therapeutic technique that induces a trance-like state of heightened suggestibility. It is often used for therapeutic purposes, such as overcoming phobias, managing pain, or changing unwanted behaviors.

While both meditation and hypnosis can promote relaxation and self-awareness, meditation emphasizes self-reflection and inner stillness, whereas hypnosis focuses on accessing the subconscious mind to bring about specific changes or outcomes.

In summary, while both practices involve altered states of consciousness, meditation emphasizes mindfulness and inner peace, while hypnosis is a therapeutic technique aimed at accessing the subconscious mind for positive change.

That's true.

Free introductory mediation classes are an easy way to recruit trustful seekers. Herein lies a hazard.

Problem is many unethical persons publicize free introductory mediation, say all the right things.

The social scene around mediation is hazardous.

* There's heavy emphasis on trust without verification

* Critical thinking and doing background checks are scorned as negative thinking.

* Though a meditation teacher may be honest and has a clean background, predators prowl the meditation scene +- trustful persons disclose secrets, get emotional and let their guard down.

But when they give the instructions these if subjects trustfully follow them, do induce trance and heightened suggestibility.

The instructor may have a concealed, exploitative agenda.

Or the instructor sincerely believes he or she is teaching meditation but that instructors teacher/guru/Lana may be a cult leader seeking fresh recruits for the dictatorship.

One example among many:

Frederick Lenz III

aka Zen Master Rama



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 05/16/2024 10:13PM by corboy.