Are we living in a hypnotized state?

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We may indeed experience states resembling hypnosis in everyday life. According to experts such as and , our perception and cognitive states often reflect characteristics of a hypnotic or dream state.

explains that hypnosis is a state of highly focused attention with reduced peripheral awareness, much like getting engrossed in a good movie or becoming deeply absorbed in work, where one loses track of time and surroundings 1. This intense focus can happen naturally and allows cognitive flexibility and dissociation from one's usual mental framework, enabling new perspectives and profound mental and physical effects 1 2.

In discussing the subjective nature of our experience, argues that we essentially live in a dream state because our brains continually make best guesses about our sensory input, leading to a reality that is subjective and often counterintuitive 3.

The Power of Hypnosis

Dr. David Spiegel explains how hypnosis allows for intense focus, cognitive flexibility, and dissociation, leading to profound effects on the mind and body. Discover how this naturally occurring experience can alter your approach to problems and enhance your ability to learn and think differently.

Rich Roll

The Surprising Neuroscience of Hypnosis: Myths, Truths & Use Cases w/ Dr. David Spiegel MD
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In essence, while we may not be "hypnotized" in the traditional sense, our brains often operate in states akin to hypnosis or dreams, shaped by focused attention and subjective perception.

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