Have you ever found yourself lost in thought while driving or doing a repetitive task?
Have you ever felt completely absorbed in a movie or TV show, only to snap out of it hours later?
If so, you may have experienced a trance state, also known as an altered state of consciousness.
I have a lot of clients who tell me they can’t go into trance or they don’t know what trance feels like.
The thing is, trance states are not new to us. In fact, we enter them multiple times a day without even realizing it. Let’s explore some common trance inducers that we may encounter in our day-to-day lives.
- TV and Movies
Watching a screen for an extended period of time is the most common of the trance inducers. This is why many people binge-watch TV shows or movies for hours on end. When we’re absorbed in a story or a world that’s not our own, we become hypnotised by the images on the screen. We become so immersed in the story that we forget about our own problems and concerns.
However, it’s important to note that watching TV or movies can also be a form of escapism. We may use it as a way to avoid dealing with our own emotions or problems. It’s important to strike a balance between entertainment and self-care.
Have you ever wondered why advertisements are always so much louder than the actual TV show or movie you’re watching? It’s so they can “snap” you out of trance, encourage you to buy their products and services and then once the ads are finished you can slip back into trance when the program continues on.
- Music
Music has the power to transport us to another world. Certain types of music, such as ambient, meditation, or binaural beats, can be very effective in inducing a trance state. These types of music often have a repetitive and soothing quality that can lull us into a trance-like state. This is why many people use music to help them relax, meditate, or fall asleep.
- Repetitive Tasks
Doing repetitive tasks can help induce a trance-like state. Tasks such as knitting, running, or even driving on a familiar route can put us into a hypnotic state. This is because our conscious mind is occupied with the task at hand, allowing our subconscious mind to take over. Our subconscious mind can become very active during these times, leading to new insights, creative ideas, or solutions to problems.
- Daydreaming
Allowing your mind to wander and getting lost in your thoughts can lead to a trance-like state. Daydreaming can be a form of self-hypnosis, as it allows our subconscious mind to take over and explore new ideas or scenarios. Daydreaming can be a great way to relax and unwind, and can also help us tap into our creativity.
- Breathing Techniques
Breathing exercises such as Pranayama or box breathing can help induce a trance-like state. These techniques involve focusing on the breath and controlling its rhythm. This can help calm the mind and relax the body, leading to a deeper level of relaxation and a trance-like state.
- Hypnosis
Being guided into a trance state by a trained hypnotherapist can help you achieve a deeper level of trance. Hypnosis involves relaxing the body and mind and entering a state of heightened suggestibility. This can be helpful for addressing certain issues, such as anxiety, addiction, or phobias.
- Meditation
Meditation involves focusing the mind on a single point or thought, which can lead to a trance-like state. Meditation can be a great way to relax and reduce stress. It can also help us gain clarity and insight into our own thoughts and emotions.
- Aromatherapy
Certain scents, such as lavender or sandalwood, is another one of the trance inducers I will write about today. Aromatherapy involves using essential oils or scents to promote relaxation and reduce stress. This can be a great way to create a calm and peaceful atmosphere in your home or workspace.
- Focused Attention
Focusing your attention on a single object or task can help induce a trance-like state. This is because when we focus our attention, we block out distractions and become more relaxed. This is why activities such as painting, drawing, writing or even playing a video game can put us into a trance-like state. We become so absorbed in the task at hand that we lose track of time and forget about our worries.
- Social Interaction
Interacting with others can also induce a trance-like state. When we’re engaged in a conversation or social activity, we become absorbed in the present moment. This can lead to a sense of relaxation and enjoyment. This is why socialising can be a great way to reduce stress and promote overall well-being.
In conclusion, trance states are a natural and common part of our day-to-day lives. By recognising and understanding the trance inducers that we encounter, we can use them to our advantage for relaxation, creativity, and personal growth. Whether it’s through watching TV, listening to music, or engaging in a conversation with friends, we can all benefit from the trance-like states that we enter throughout the day. Just remember to stay aware and in control, and to use these trance states for positive purposes.
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