Blog: How Hypnotisable Are You?

If you’ve ever wondered whether hypnosis would “work” for you, you’re not alone. Some people slip into a hypnotic state easily, while others feel like they struggle to relax enough. The truth is, everyone experiences hypnosis differently—and that’s perfectly fine. Let’s dive into what makes some people more hypnotisable than others, how it works in the brain, and whether you can improve your ability to experience hypnosis.

What Does Hypnotisability Mean?
Hypnotisability refers to how easily someone can enter a hypnotic state. It’s a natural trait, and like any human characteristic, it varies. Research shows:

10–15% of people are highly hypnotisable.
10% find it challenging to enter even a light trance.
The majority of people fall somewhere in the middle.
Being hypnotisable doesn’t mean you’re weak-minded—it’s quite the opposite. It indicates that you have the ability to focus deeply and respond to suggestions in a meaningful way.

Can You Measure Hypnotisability?
Yes! The Spiegel Eye-Roll Test, developed by psychiatrist Herbert Spiegel, is one way to assess hypnotisability. Here’s how it works:

Look upwards as far as you can, keeping your head still.
Slowly close your eyelids while continuing to look upwards.
If the whites of your eyes are still visible, you may be highly hypnotisable.
This test isn’t definitive, but it’s a fun and fascinating indicator.

What Makes Someone Hypnotisable?
Several factors influence how easily someone can enter a hypnotic state:

Absorption: If you can get lost in a book, film, or daydream, you’re likely to find hypnosis natural.
Openness to Experience: Being open to new ideas and imaginative processes makes it easier to engage with hypnosis.
Trust and Relaxation: Feeling safe with your therapist and the process helps you relax and go deeper into hypnosis.

Interestingly, hypnotisability isn’t fixed. Even if you don’t think you’re “good” at hypnosis, you can improve with practice and familiarity.

Think of it like being musical. You may be born with a gift for music, but if you don't you can still knock out a great rendition of Les Trois Gymnopédies with practice. 

What Happens in the Brain During Hypnosis?

Brain imaging studies reveal that highly hypnotisable people show stronger connectivity between:

The dorsal anterior cingulate cortex (DACC), responsible for attention and focus and 
the default mode network, which controls self-referential thoughts (like your inner monologue).
This means their brains are better at shutting off distractions and tuning into the process—skills that are key for hypnosis.

Can You Get Better at Hypnosis?

Absolutely as as said earlier it can be something that is learned. Hypnotisability isn’t set in stone, and here’s how you can develop it:

Practice Relaxation: Regularly listening to guided hypnosis tracks can help you build familiarity and trust with the process.
Let Go of Preconceptions: People often block themselves by thinking they need to feel a certain way. Relax and let the experience unfold naturally. Don't try to go into hypnosis just sit back and enjoy the experience. 
Work with a Professional: A skilled hypnotherapist can tailor suggestions to your unique needs, helping you ease into hypnosis at your own pace.

Curious to Try It?
If you’d like to explore your hypnotisability, why not give it a try? You can:

Book a Session: Experience hypnosis in a professional setting and discover how it feels for you.
Schedule a Clarity Call: Chat with me about your questions or concerns before diving in.
Download a Guided Audio: Start small and explore the process from the comfort of your own home.
Click [here](insert link) to book your session or download your free audio today.