The REM Hypnotic Induction: A Practical Application of Hypnosis Principles

This is a groundbreaking way to create instant, effective hypnosis.

Hypnosis often gets compared to sleep, and while they might share some surface similarities, anyone who’s spent time studying hypnosis knows it’s something entirely unique. Hypnosis is a state of focused attention, heightened suggestibility, and sometimes, deep relaxation. Sleep, on the other hand, is a biological necessity for physical and mental recovery.

However, there’s a fascinating overlap between the two, and Mike’s REM Hypnotic Induction uses this connection in a simple yet effective way. It’s a perfect example of how understanding the principles of hypnosis allows you to craft your own effective inductions.

This induction is built on the wisdom of Clark Hull’s famous quote: “Anything that assumes trance, causes trance.” By mimicking the natural processes of REM sleep, this method is quick and effective to guide someone into a deep hypnotic state.

Why the REM Hypnotic Induction Works

Let’s start with what makes this approach effective. While hypnosis isn’t sleep, the brain’s natural processes during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep offer a helpful framework for inducing trance. During REM sleep, the body shuts down motor neurons to prevent physical movement (a safeguard so you don’t act out your dreams). At the same time, the eyes remain highly active, moving rapidly beneath closed eyelids.

The REM induction taps into these natural mechanisms. By engaging the eyes and signaling the brain to relax the body, we replicate elements of the REM state. This allows the hypnotist to perform an instant induction (also called a shock induction), bypassing the critical faculty—the part of the mind that resists suggestions—leading the subject into a deep hypnotic trance.

Breaking Down the REM Hypnotic Induction

In Mike’s demonstration with Shayne, the induction process unfolds step-by-step, making it easy to follow and replicate. Here’s how it works:

1. Setting the Scene

The process begins with a simple pre-talk to set the stage for the induction. Mike reassures Shayne that he’ll remain safe, comfortable, and in control throughout. This builds rapport and reduces any potential resistance to hypnosis.

2. Engaging the Visual System

Shayne is asked to follow Mike’s moving fingertip with his eyes. This movement is deliberate: it replicates the rapid eye movement seen during REM sleep while occupying the conscious mind with a simple task. This makes the REM induction is a kind of eye fixation induction, the same kind that old-school hypnotists used a pendulum to perform

3. The Command

Once the timing feels right, Mike delivers the verbal command: “Sleep now.” This phrase is delivered gently but suddenly, and with confidence and authority, causing a mild shock that allows the subject to go instantly into trance, creating a very deep trance.

4. Deepening the Trance

With Shayne now in a hypnotic state, Mike deepens the trance with soothing language and positive suggestions. He uses rhythmic speech and carefully chosen words to reinforce relaxation and focus, ensuring Shayne is fully immersed in the hypnotic experience. This kind of deepener is essential to stabilize the trance state after an induction.

The Power of Empowerment

What makes this demonstration truly remarkable isn’t just the method of inducing trance—it’s what happens next. Once Shayne is in a deep state of hypnosis, Mike uses the opportunity to deliver empowering direct suggestions.

He encourages Shayne to let go of outdated decisions and embrace new strengths. Using vivid metaphors and engaging imagery, Mike reinforces the idea that Shayne has always had the power to create positive change. It’s a classic moment that many will recognize from The Wizard of Oz: just as Dorothy learns that she’s had the power to return home all along, Shayne is reminded that he already has the tools to thrive and succeed.

Practical Applications of the REM Induction

The REM Hypnotic Induction is versatile and effective in many contexts. Here are a few examples of where it might come in handy:

• Therapy Sessions: Instantly guiding clients into a very deep state, making sessions efficient and impactful.
• Stage Hypnosis: Offering a dramatic and visually engaging induction for audiences to enjoy.
• Demonstrations: Perfect for showing how simple and natural hypnosis can be, especially for those new to the subject.

The REM induction stands out for its simplicity. It doesn’t require props, complex setups, or lengthy pre-talks. All you need is an understanding of the principles and the confidence to guide someone into trance.

The Key Takeaway: Principles, Not Rules

The REM Induction highlights an important lesson for anyone studying hypnosis: it’s not about finding the “perfect” induction. Instead, it’s about understanding the principles that make hypnosis work.

As we teach in the Mike Mandel Hypnosis Academy, “Principles, not rules,” is the foundation of effective hypnosis. Rules are rigid and limiting, but principles give hypnotists the freedom to adapt, create, and innovate.

If you’re a hypnotist—or aspiring to become one—this induction is a great example of what’s possible when you truly understand the mechanics of hypnosis. It’s not about memorizing scripts or rigid methods but about thinking critically, adapting to your subject, and crafting experiences that align with their natural patterns.

Once you understand principles like bypassing the critical faculty and engaging the unconscious mind, you can design your own inductions to suit any client or situation. And remember, hypnosis is a skill that grows with practice, so don’t be afraid to experiment and make these techniques your own!

The REM Hypnotic Induction isn’t about being flashy or reinventing the wheel—it’s about applying timeless principles in a way that works. It’s a reminder that hypnosis is both an art and a science, where creativity and understanding go hand in hand.

Remember: Principles, not rules. When you grasp this mindset, you’ll find there’s no limit to what you can achieve with hypnosis.