Is it true that you can find out more about yourself when you do self-hypnosis?
Yes. Because you will be dealing with the subconscious, you may discover some facts about yourself that you may not know before. This is not some mystical fact or some unconscious secret. For the most part, you will become enlightened on the things that yo sometimes hide from yourself. You will even realize hidden motivations and repressed feelings that in some ways can help you become a better person.
Is it safe?
When in the hands of professional hypnotists, it is. The problem is with most reports is the fact that they blame the procedure when it is the individual's fault. News of hypnosis sessions going awry is not the fault of hypnosis as a science but amateur and fake hypnotists. That is why it is important to research the background of hypnotists first before a person even makes an appointment. Remember that this person will have control of your mind for while. If that is not reason enough to really make sure they're legitimate, I don't know what is.
Can self-hypnosis make a person highly suggestible and easily influenced in real life?
Yes to the first question and no to the next. Regular practice of self-hypnosis can improve a person's response to hypnosis. Sessions will be easier and faster and they will be able to make the most out of their self-hypnosis procedures. You will however be only highly suggestible during your own self-hypnosis sessions. This is because your brain has gotten used to it but if you hypnotize yourself for a completely different thing, it will be back to square one. This is also not something that will spill over your daily grind. People will not become easily influenced just because they practice self-hypnosis. Besides the better that you understand how "suggestions" work, the more you will be know how to resist other people's subtle attempts at manipulating you.
What are things that you can use self-hypnosis with?
Some of the most common things that people use self-hypnosis for is changing an existing mindset and personality. A person for instance who easily angers can learn to be patient through self-hypnosis. The same goes with a person who cannot stop talking or gossiping. Students have also used self-hypnosis to improve their grades and enhance learning. Hypnosis is after all can improve one's memory and level of concentration. There are some who have claimed that it also works wonders with relieving pain in the body. Hypnosis can make a person forget about the pain or not feel the pain at all. Although only a few cases of addiction have been associated with self-hypnosis, it has been linked to smoking cessation. Reports however on its effectiveness are still mixed and there is still a need for new data.
Can it improve sports performance? If yes, can it strengthen a person?
Some people have also claimed to using self-hypnosis to improve their performance in sports. This however does not make a person stronger. It cannot affect or change a person's physical make-up. However the change in the performance may be brought on by an improved level of concentration as well as a more fearless attitude. Fear can sometimes make us hesitate even when we are already doing what comes naturally to us.