14: The curious history of “hypnosis” (with Laurnie Wilson)

What do you think of when you hear “hypnosis?” Is it an on-stage comedy act where a magician-like performer is getting people to cluck like chickens? Or is it a deep healing modality? I suppose it depends on who you talk to.

I was so honored to sit down with Laurnie Wilson, a seasoned hypnotherapist, yoga teacher, and intuitive guide, to explore the history, transformative power, and misunderstood aspects of the word (and practice) “hypnosis.”

Diving into this word also served as a good reminder that often the practices that we practice today are much older than the English word we use to identify it.

Tune in to learn…

  • The evolution of “hypnosis” from ancient practices to modern therapeutic techniques.

  • Common misconceptions about hypnosis and how the history of the word has influenced our perception of the word today (hint: it's about so much more than "sleep").

  • Insights into the cultural and personal narratives that shape our understanding of hypnosis.

  • A few practical tips for getting started with hypnosis, even if it sounds a bit scary.

See how hypnosis heals — press play.

Want to learn more about Laurnie? Explore her work here:

And I leave you with this… the mesmerizing Mesmer

May I present “the Father of modern hypnotism” and also the reason we all doubt hypnotism….

Sound like a contradiction?

Tune into this week’s episode to hear all about it.

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15: "Wilderness" - the word, the myth, the construct (with Erin Monahan)

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13: “Listening” is a tender act (with Amelia Hruby)