The hypno-wheel is a prop traditionally used by stage hypnotists.
Accounts of the father of modern hypnotherapy, American Milton H. Erickson, paint a picture of a charismatic man who repeatedly made an impression on his subjects; however, training to become a successful stage hypnotist takes more than charisma. The process of training to become a stage hypnotist requires an exploration of and passion for fields as diverse as the performing arts, psychology, neuroscience and linguistics. As Derren Brown, an internationally renowned mentalist, writes in his book "Tricks of the Mind," "Think of practicing hypnosis as learning induce a profound state of relaxation in a person, brought about by suggestion. Once that state is induced, people will show varying degrees of suggestibility, which seems to tie in with how responsive they are in everyday life."
Instructions
1. Learn as much as you can about the theories, methods and applications of hypnosis by reading published work by doctors, psychologists and experienced performers. Avoid resources that make hyperbolic claims or guarantees of fame or success.
2. Attend student-centered classes, seminars, workshops and conferences that are facilitated by experienced and certified professionals. Use these opportunities to make contacts and build relationships with people in the field.
3. Write and memorize your own script. Make sure that your script includes and clearly describes the four main parts of a hypnosis performance: how you will prepare your subjects, how you will deepen the trance, what hypnotic effects you will facilitate and how you will awaken your subjects.
4. Practice on your friends in a safe, controlled and relaxed environment. Ask for permission to record your performance, and then watch the recording to find out how you can improve. As Fabio Tabbo writes in "Stop-Smoking Mentalism: Close-up Hypnosis," "When watching my performances on video, I always noticed some kind of imperfection in the tonality, timing, body positioning, etc."
5. Find a mentor. Use your contacts or call a local hypnotist to ask for permission to observe a performance. Take copious notes. Follow up with a thank-you note.
