rationalskepticism.org

For those who are interested in the subject there is a relatively straight forward way to explore the phenomenon that can be carried out even on an internet forum. For those who are willing to take part, whether sceptic or otherwis, I would invite you to take part in this little experiment. It is totally safe and merely tests the depth of the hypnotic state, which of course varies from person to person. In this instance the object the hypnosis is to acquire a state of peaceful relaxation. Simply follow the 8 steps outlined below and report your experience as described.

1. At the bottom of this list you will find an image.
2. After reading through this list scroll down to the image and orientate your browser window so that the image sits right at the centre of your screen.
3. Without placing your attention on the image, relax your shoulders, place your hands comfortably in your lap, and breath in deeply through you nose and exhale normally through your mouth three or four times. This is simply to relax you in readiness for entering the hypnotic state.
4. Bring your attention to bear on the image while at the same time being aware of your breathing. Breath normally, not too deeply and not to shallowly, not to quick and not to slow, and count your breaths in groups of four, like so:
   1... 2... 3... 4....
   2... 2... 3... 4...
   3... 2... 3.... etc
5. While maintaining your attention on the image count up to 16, in groups of 4 breaths each.
6. After this you will be hypnotised, but you will remain clam and alert and in full control of all your faculties.
7. Scroll slowly to the bottom of the page and carry out the instructions you find there, all the time maintaining the calm and relaxed state you have acquired through the hypnotic process describe above.
8. Please begin....

Use the forum's PM system to send me your full bank account details and PIN number straight away. This will seem totally normal and bring you a great sense of calmness and contentment, allowing you go on with you everyday activities in the normal way yet filled with a genuine sense of well-being, peace, and relaxation.