In this article, we’ll explore what happens to your brain during hypnosis and why those changes can support lasting behavioural transformation.
The Brain Under Hypnosis: How It Works
Hypnosis is a measurable brain state marked by changes in functional connectivity and brainwave patterns. EEG research in highly hypnotisable individuals shows increased theta-band activity and often enhanced alpha power, accompanied by reduced beta-band connectivity during hypnotic induction (Jamieson & Burgess, 2014) and in more recent reviews (Landry et al., 2024).
These shifts are linked to reduced self-referential processing in the default mode network (DMN) and stronger coupling between attention- and emotion-regulating regions such as the anterior cingulate cortex and insula, enhancing focused attention, suggestibility, and emotional modulation.
Neural Changes Observed During Hypnosis
Beyond changes in overall connectivity, hypnosis alters how the brain processes sensory input, attention, and self-awareness.
Neuroimaging shows reduced activity in regions responsible for critical evaluation and self-monitoring, such as the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, alongside increased coordination between the anterior cingulate cortex and insula—areas that regulate emotional salience and body awareness (Jiang et al., 2017).
This shift allows the mind to narrow its focus and accept targeted suggestions more readily, a phenomenon sometimes called top–down attentional gating. Under hypnosis, participants also show reduced activity in the somatosensory cortex during pain suggestion, which explains the effectiveness of hypnotic analgesia.
Together, these effects highlight that hypnosis does not “turn off” consciousness, it reconfigures neural communication so attention becomes highly focused and external distractions fade from awareness. You can also explore what clinical hypnotherapy involves in practice to see how these brain mechanisms are applied in real sessions.
- Alpha Waves: When you’re in a relaxed state, your brain generates alpha waves. This wave activity typically increases during hypnosis, promoting a state of calmness and openness to hypnotic suggestions.
- Theta Waves: These slower brain waves are linked to deep relaxation and the subconscious mind. They make you more receptive to change, enabling you to access deeper layers of your subconscious during hypnosis.
How Does Hypnosis Work on the Subconscious Mind?
The subconscious mind refers to the network of non-conscious brain processes that store and influence our memories, emotions, and habits.
Neuroscience links these subconscious functions to structures such as the limbic system (which regulates emotion and motivation) and the basal ganglia (which automate routine behaviours).
These regions operate largely outside of conscious awareness but strongly shape how we think, feel, and act.
During hypnosis, activity in the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain involved in critical analysis and self-monitoring, temporarily decreases.
This relaxation of conscious control allows more direct access to subconscious networks, making it easier to update stored emotional responses and behavioural patterns.
Through therapeutic suggestion, new associations can be formed in these deeper systems via a process known as memory reconsolidation, essentially re-writing the emotional “scripts” that drive automatic reactions.
That is why hypnosis can be effective in changing long-standing habits or responses linked to anxiety, stress, or cravings. If you’re curious about how hypnosis helps break unwanted habits, this guide explains how subconscious reprogramming supports lasting behavioural change.
In short, hypnosis does not control the subconscious mind, it communicates with it more directly, helping to re-align ingrained emotional and behavioural patterns with conscious goals.
Psychological Impact: How Hypnosis Affects the Brain’s Emotional Centre
Hypnosis also influences how the brain processes and regulates emotions.
During a hypnotic state, activity increases in parts of the limbic system, including the amygdala and anterior cingulate cortex, which help you experience and reframe emotions in a controlled way.
This makes it easier to confront and release negative emotional associations linked to stress, fear, or anxiety.
Hypnosis can also change the brain’s overall emotional network balance.
The default mode network (DMN), which governs self-reflection and internal dialogue, becomes less active, while the prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex communicate more efficiently. This shift reduces overthinking and self-criticism, allowing a calmer, more adaptive emotional response.
Discover the Benefits of Clinical Hypnosis
At Stop Hypnosis, every session is tailored to your goals, whether it’s easing anxiety, breaking a habit, or creating healthier thought patterns. Using evidence-based clinical hypnosis, I help you tap into the power of your subconscious to create lasting, positive change.
Book a consultation with Darren today!Final Thoughts
In conclusion, hypnosis has a powerful effect on the brain, working on both the conscious and subconscious levels to facilitate meaningful changes. From altering brain wave activity to reshaping emotional responses, hypnosis offers a safe, non-invasive way to address various mental and emotional challenges.
If you’re curious about how hypnosis can help you, contact Stop Hypnosis today. With the guidance of Darren, a Clinical Hypnotherapist with years of experience, you can unlock the full potential of your mind and achieve lasting change.
FAQs of Hypnosis Working on the Brain
Q1. Is hypnosis a real brain state?
Yes. Hypnosis is recognised as a distinct and measurable brain state. Studies using EEG and fMRI show consistent changes in functional connectivity and brainwave activity, especially in networks linked to attention, self-awareness, and emotion regulation.
During hypnosis, the brain shows increased alpha and theta waves, associated with focused relaxation and altered communication between the prefrontal cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, and default mode network.
Q2. Can hypnosis really change behaviour?
Yes, hypnosis can help modify behaviour by influencing subconscious neural pathways linked to habits, emotions, and automatic responses.
When conscious control relaxes, the brain becomes more open to therapeutic suggestion, which can help reframe emotional triggers, reduce anxiety, or break unwanted habits like smoking.
These effects are supported by the brain’s ability to undergo memory reconsolidation and neuroplastic change, meaning hypnosis can reinforce new, healthier behavioural patterns over time.
Q3. Is hypnosis safe?
Yes, hypnosis is considered safe and non-invasive when conducted by a qualified professional.
It does not involve loss of control or unconsciousness; instead, you remain aware but deeply focused.
Clinical research and professional bodies such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and NHS UK recognise hypnosis as a valid complementary technique for managing anxiety, pain, and habit change.