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Every year on January 4
World Hypnotism Day
One day each year, hypnotists and hypnotherapists around the world share what hypnosis really is, and what it isn’t. Here is the story behind the day, the myths it sets out to bust, and how you can take part.
Next celebration: Monday, January 4, 2027
What it is
A worldwide day to celebrate hypnosis
Every January 4, hypnotists, hypnotherapists and hypnosis enthusiasts in dozens of countries hold free talks, demonstrations, group sessions and open houses. The goal is simple: to show people what hypnosis really is and how it can help.
Thanks to movies, cartoons and stage shows, hypnosis has picked up a lot of myths about mind control and swinging watches. World Hypnotism Day is about replacing those with facts.
The history
Where World Hypnotism Day came from
World Hypnotism Day began in the mid-2000s, when hypnotist Tom Nicoli and colleagues from more than a dozen countries agreed to hold a shared day of events to raise public awareness of hypnosis.
The day is also closely linked with Dr. Jack Gibson, an Irish-born surgeon and hypnotherapist who pioneered the use of hypnosis in surgery and spent much of his career treating psychosomatic conditions. He died in 2005, and in Ireland especially, World Hypnotism Day is celebrated in his honor.
You may see different founding stories and dates online. What everyone agrees on is the purpose: to clear away the myths and share what hypnosis can really do.
The official World Hypnotism Day website still exists, although it doesn’t appear to be updated often: worldhypnotismday.com.
Myths vs. facts
Six hypnosis myths, busted
Busting myths is what World Hypnotism Day is all about. Here are the ones hypnotherapists hear most often.
“Hypnosis is mind control.”
No one can make you do something against your values under hypnosis. You stay aware and in control, and you can reject any suggestion.
“Hypnosis is sleep.”
Brain imaging shows hypnosis is a state of focused, absorbed attention. Most people hear everything and remember the session afterward.
“You’ll give away your secrets.”
You won’t say anything you don’t want to say. Hypnosis doesn’t switch off your judgment.
“You could get stuck.”
There are no documented cases of anyone getting stuck in hypnosis. If a session stopped, you would simply drift back to normal awareness, or fall asleep and wake up naturally.
“Only weak-minded people can be hypnotized.”
Responsiveness to hypnosis has nothing to do with intelligence or willpower. Focus and imagination help far more.
“Stage hypnosis is the same as hypnotherapy.”
Stage shows are entertainment with willing volunteers. Hypnotherapy is a private, goal-focused process that uses hypnosis to help with things like habits, stress and confidence.
Take part
How to celebrate World Hypnotism Day
Hypnotists around the world hold events every January 4. Whether you attend one or not, here are some easy ways to join in.
Find a local event
Many hypnotherapists offer free talks, open houses and group sessions on January 4. I will share events here as they are announced, so check back as the date gets closer.
Take a free test
Discover how your mind takes in suggestions with the Suggestibility Test, or see how ready you are for hypnosis with the Trance Receptivity Index.
Learn something new
Read about Kappasinian and Ericksonian hypnosis, or browse my recommended reading.
Curious what hypnotherapy could do for you?
Celebrate World Hypnotism Day by asking your questions. I’m happy to talk.