Hypnosis touches all our lives daily, whether we realize it or not. From the relentless stream of television and social media to conversations with others sharing what they’ve seen or read, we are constantly influenced. Platforms like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) flood us with stories—some real, others questionable—leaving little room for the imaginative spark we once cherished. Sadly, many of us have unknowingly silenced our creativity.
As a hypnotist, I rely heavily on imagination. On stage, I’m a leader guiding audiences through moments of wonder. In my office, I’m a coach offering suggestions that engage the hippocampus (memory), amygdala (emotion), and limbic cortex (imagination) to inspire positive feelings, thoughts, and behavioural changes. Imagination is at the heart of everything I do, and I’m reminded daily of how transformative it can be when harnessed correctly.
A while ago, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with a friend who was in town on personal business. Though our visit was brief, it was meaningful. We shared a meal, enjoyed plenty of laughs, and took a much-needed walk afterward. During our stroll, we talked shop—hypnosis, of course. We’re both in the same business, which often means competing for gigs, but what sets our friendship apart is our ability to support each other. Free from the drama that can sometimes plague the entertainment world, we’re sounding boards for one another, offering ideas, feedback, and encouragement.
Even as competitors, we’ve found value in collaboration. We bounce skits, suggestions, and techniques off each other, gaining fresh perspectives and discovering new ways to approach our craft. In the entertainment world—or any profession, really—having colleagues who genuinely want to see you succeed is invaluable.
Our conversation during that walk was a deep dive into the art of hypnosis. We discussed the techniques we use, how audiences respond, and the unique challenges we face. While our approaches differ, our passion for creating meaningful and memorable experiences for our volunteers and audiences remains the same.
We also touched on the importance of innovation. The world moves fast, and as performers, we must keep up to stay relevant. We brainstormed ways to incorporate current events and trending topics into our routines, making them more relatable and impactful.
Reflecting on our time together, I’m reminded of the profound value of professional camaraderie. Sharing ideas, learning from one another, and exploring different viewpoints enrich not only our work but also our personal growth. Hypnosis—whether on stage or in everyday life—is a journey of discovery. By keeping our minds open and embracing imagination, we can create extraordinary and transformative experiences for ourselves and others.
Gavin Hooper
The Fun Hypnotist