NLP → NLP Lexicon

Trance / Hypnotic Trance / Altered State of Consciousness

Definition

Trance is a state of altered attention and consciousness, characterized by a inwardly directed concentration and a heightened focus on inner processes. In NLP, trance describes access to unconscious resources, where learning, associations, and problem-solving occur at a deeper level. The hypnotic trance often arises through targeted communication and suggestion, as developed by Milton H. Erickson and modeled by Bandler and Grinder within the framework of NLP.

Examples of trance

• A deep immersion in an activity where time seems to fly by.
• A state in which a person automatically and without conscious effort performs an action.
• A hypnosis session in which inner images or feelings are activated to promote change processes.

Origin and Theoretical Background

The understanding of trance in NLP is largely based on the work of Milton H. Erickson, who understood trance as a pragmatic state of focused attention in which the conscious mind recedes and unconscious processes are activated. Erickson did not see trance as an extraordinary state, but as a natural form of attention, available to every person. Richard Bandler composure John Grinder modeled Erickson's work and integrated it into NLP, especially in the Milton Model of hypnotic language, which aims to induce and therapeutically utilize trance states through targeted language patterns.

Application Examples

• In Coaching: A trance induction helps the client achieve a resource state, where they can access creativity, intuition, and problem-solving abilities.
• In Therapy: Trance is used to interrupt negative patterns, resolve unconscious conflicts, and anchor new behaviors.
• In everyday life: Everyday trances like daydreams or 'flow' states are utilized, to focus on positive goals and strengthen concentration.

Areas of Application

• Therapy: Hypnotherapy, trauma work, pain management.
• Coaching: Activation of inner resources and promotion of goal clarity.
• Communication: Application of hypnotic language patterns for motivation and influence.
• Personal Development: Self-hypnosis to promote relaxation, focus, and creativity.

Methods and Exercises

1. Trance induction: Guide the client into a state of deepened attention through calm breathing, even speech rhythm, or visual focusing.
2. Trance ratification: Confirm the state through feedback or questions, e.g.: 'What are you currently aware of?' or 'How does that feel?'
3. Trance utilization: Use the trance to guide the client to inner resources or solutions, for example through suggestions like: 'Imagine you find a solution that feels just right.'
4. Trance termination: Gently guide the client out of the trance, e.g.: 'When you are ready, slowly open your eyes and return to the present with a pleasant feeling.'

Synonyms or Related Terms

• Hypnosis
• Altered state of consciousness
• Deep relaxation

Distinction

Trance differs from normal waking states through the focused attention and the activation of unconscious processes. It is not a passive state or sleep, but an active learning and change state, in which the unconscious can be purposefully used for development and healing.

Scientific or Practical Benefit

• Individually: Promotion of relaxation, inner focus, and creative problem-solving.
• Practically: Effective tool for changing habits, behavioral patterns, and emotional states.
• Scientifically: Supported by insights from neuropsychology and hypnosis research, which show that trance influences neural activity and suggestibility.

Criticism or Limitations

• Subjectivity: Trance experiences are individually different and depend on trust and willingness.
• Risk of abuse: Trance techniques can be used manipulatively; therefore, ethical application is crucial.

Literature and References

• Bandler, R., & Grinder, J. (1975). The Structure of Magic I. Science and Behavior Books, Palo Alto.
• Erickson, M. H., & Rossi, E. L. (1976). Hypnotic Realities. Irvington Publishers, New York.
• Gilligan, S. (1987). Therapeutic Trances: The Cooperation Principle in Ericksonian Hypnotherapy. Brunner/Mazel, New York.

Metaphor or Analogy

Trance is like watching a river:

As you stand on the shore, thoughts, images, and sensations flow past you. You can choose whether to dive into the river, observe it, or steer it in a new direction. Thus, trance becomes a conscious state of inner movement and change.

See also