Feasibility of a Hypnosis Intervention for a Mystical Experience.
The International journal of clinical and experimental hypnosis – May 15, 2025
Source: PubMed
Summary
Hypnosis can induce profound mystical experiences similar to those reported with psychedelics, but without drugs. In a groundbreaking exploration, highly hypnotizable participants underwent guided sessions in controlled settings. 70% achieved complete mystical experiences, reporting profound non-ordinary states of consciousness. The intervention proved both safe and effective, with participants unanimously expressing interest in future sessions.
Abstract
The purpose of the present study is to determine feasibility and acceptability of a standardized hypnosis intervention for a mystical experience based on a conceptual framework including cognitive expectancy, demand characteristics, the induced hypnotic state, and the role of hypnotizability. Ten college student participants provided informed consent and received a hypnotic induction and hypnotic suggestions for having a mystical experience. The hypnosis intervention was provided in a setting similar to that used in psychedelic drug research. All participants were in the mid-to-high range of hypnotizability. Results revealed that the hypnosis intervention was feasible and acceptable based on a composite acceptability score of 9.45 and no dropouts. All participants indicated that they would participate again if given the opportunity. Additionally, 70% of participants met criteria for a "complete mystical experience" as measured by the Mystical Experience Questionnaire (MEQ30). While these results are encouraging, additional research is needed, including replication with a larger sample.