HYPNOSIS AND MEDITATION

Though there are several features common to both as seen above, meditation is not
the same as hypnosis. Meditation, when practiced, begins as self-hypnosis. It
happens spontaneously too. And it may extend along an uncharted path to lands
without boundaries. Hypnosis is restricted and much circumscribed. Both have been
subjected to scientific research but it is difficult to standardize the results
since the experience is subjective and input qualitative. On EEG, both the
experiential states generate alpha waves and cannot be distinguished by it. Both
are royal roads to unconscious mind and can lead to the experience that "a moment
reveals what the ages toiled to express." "Siddhis" accrue to the meditator.
Hypnosis generates creativity.
Let us compare them in a nut shell.
1. Scientific and therapeutic Spiritual

Subject ofscientific scrutiny

Studied scientifically since last two centuries
Fertile ground for research; difficult to quantify the experience
Any one can learn
Goal oriented

Relaxation and deep breathing are

utilized as induction tools
Utilized for therapeutic healing and for personality
development
Self hypnosis is easy to learn and practice and can be taught individually and in
group by academicians

Philosophical

Spiritual experience since ages

Difficult to quantify
A moral and ethical code of living is a prerequisite before initiation; esoteric
There are three kind of samadhis:

Savikalpa — yoga nidra is goal oriented; nirvikalpa is goalless; nirbeej is

experience of total emptyness.
Stillness of body and mind is essential; esoteric breathing exercises, pranayam,
facilitate the experience
Health giving, disease preventing and helps spiritual growth
Requires a guru. Difficult to find a bonafide guru.