Hypnosis vs. Meditation

What’s the Difference?

I sometimes get asked this question, and I think it’s a good one: What’s the difference between Hypnosis and meditation?

While there are many different kinds of meditation, usually the goal is to achieve a state of mindfulness or awareness with no preconceived goal. It’s more of a passive attentiveness: noticing what arises and letting it go.  (Sometimes easier said then done!)

All we are is changing. –John Overdurf

With Hypnosis, it’s more strategic. You’re intentionally focusing on a specific outcome or goal (e.g reducing anxiety, alleviating pain, increasing confidence, quitting smoking, etc.). Specific changes in how you’re feeling are actively pursued and explored so you can make positive changes in certain behaviors or ways of thinking. Basically, you’re more in control, and as the brilliant Hypnosis coach/teacher John Overdurf points out: it’s all about changing.

In other words, with meditation you’re focused on clearing your mind, with Hypnosis you’re purposely using suggestions to redirect your attention to predetermined positive outcomes.
You can learn more about Hypnosis and what kinds of things it can help with here.

Combining Hypnosis & Meditation: Double Your Relaxation

Hypnosis and meditation also share a few similarities: they both require focused attention, promote a state of relaxation, and can be deeply beneficial.

I like to use them both for different things. Or even combine them.

So many clients tell me how difficult it is for them to meditate. They often compare a Reiki session to someone helping them meditate. Others find Hypnosis to be a good way to quiet their thoughts, an entry point to starting a meditation practice.