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When you hear the term hypnosis, you might think of dramatized stage acts or movie scenes. However, hypnosis is not meant to be a form of entertainment: The technique can help reduce pain, depression, anxiety, and phobias.Hypnosis might also help with quitting smoking or drinking alcohol, as well as weight loss, but more research is needed and long-term results are unknown.
Practicing self-hypnosis is very similar to meditation, but self-hypnosis is more goal-oriented and puts you in a trance-like state instead of being present.
If you’re interested in giving self-hypnosis a try (no hypnotist required), read on for our list of the six best hypnosis apps.
Hypnosis apps have become popular for tackling a range of issues, but you should be aware of what these apps can and cannot do. Because they lack scientific backing for many of their health claims, you should always use caution and good judgment when trying a new app. Such apps may help achieve better relaxation, but they are never a substitute for medical or psychotherapeutic treatment. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about any symptoms that are interfering with your daily life.
Best Overall: HypnoBox
Hypnobox
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Key Specs
Why We Chose It
HypnoBox has a wealth of free resources and offers a lot of customization, making it a fantastic choice for anyone interested in self-hypnosis.
Pros & Cons
ProsFree version availableCan be used for different issues/concernsSessions have several customizable optionsSite’s FAQ page explains how self-hypnosis worksMultiple purchase/subscription options availableConsCan be challenging if not familiar with hypnosisCustomized sessions do not always flow smoothlySome customers noted voice options sounding “robotic”
ProsFree version availableCan be used for different issues/concernsSessions have several customizable optionsSite’s FAQ page explains how self-hypnosis worksMultiple purchase/subscription options available
Free version available
Can be used for different issues/concerns
Sessions have several customizable options
Site’s FAQ page explains how self-hypnosis works
Multiple purchase/subscription options available
ConsCan be challenging if not familiar with hypnosisCustomized sessions do not always flow smoothlySome customers noted voice options sounding “robotic”
Can be challenging if not familiar with hypnosis
Customized sessions do not always flow smoothly
Some customers noted voice options sounding “robotic”
Overview
There are several free options included in the app, or you can pay for individual add-on features or a yearly subscription.
Best for Relaxation: Relax and Sleep Well Hypnosis
Relax and Sleep Well Hypnosis
Since the Relax and Sleep Well Hypnosis app can help with relaxation as well as sleep issues, you can use it to help you relax for the day ahead or to wind down at night.
Designed to help with relaxation and sleep
Soothing, gentle voice
Some sessions help you fall and stay asleep
ConsLimited free sessionsLimited customizationsNo subscription options
Limited free sessions
Limited customizations
No subscription options
The goal of hypnosis is to induce a deeply relaxed state in which people are more open to suggestion. While hypnosis itself is not therapy, the process is sometimes used as an aid during psychotherapy.
Self-hypnosis apps like this one may also incorporate other elements designed to increase relaxation, including meditation, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization. These are all techniques that you can learn and practice regularly to improve your ability to relax.
Best for Mood: Harmony Hypnosis Meditation
Harmony Hypnosis Meditation
Available on many platforms
One-time purchase option for lifetime access
ConsWebsite version can be difficult to navigateApp promotes other products
Website version can be difficult to navigate
App promotes other products
The Harmony Hypnosis app is designed to offer both self-hypnosis and meditation. Its creators suggest that the app can help decrease stress and improve relaxation, inner strength, and confidence. To enter a hypnotic state, you will focus on auditory music, a verbal mantra, a visual image on a screen, or even a physical movement.
The app offers a 7-day free trial and a subscription service that has new topics added regularly. Like other self-hypnosis products, this one uses the meditative process to help you enter a deeply relaxed state free of distractions.
Best for Weight Loss: Lose Weight Hypnosis
Lose Weight Hypnosis
ProsEncourages specific routine for benefitsComprehensive, easy-to-follow instructionsVolume control for voices and background soundsTracks listening time in Apple’s Health appSleep and wake settingsConsIndicated for ages 12+Limited free content
ProsEncourages specific routine for benefitsComprehensive, easy-to-follow instructionsVolume control for voices and background soundsTracks listening time in Apple’s Health appSleep and wake settings
Encourages specific routine for benefits
Comprehensive, easy-to-follow instructions
Volume control for voices and background sounds
Tracks listening time in Apple’s Health app
Sleep and wake settings
ConsIndicated for ages 12+Limited free content
Indicated for ages 12+
Limited free content
Research has found that hypnosis may be a helpful tool for those who are trying to lose weight. One clinical trial found that self-hypnosis was linked to improved satiation, increased quality of life, and reduced inflammation. The results also found that those who used self-hypnosis habitually experienced greater weight loss.
The Lose Weight Hypnosis app is one of the most popular options designed for weight loss. The founders suggest that it can help you learn how to better enjoy healthy food and exercise after one to three weeks of use.
The 20-minute daily hypnotic audio sessions incorporate suggestions that are intended to influence your mindset and behavior subconsciously. User reviews suggest that the app may be useful for both inspiring weight loss and improving relaxation.
As with other hypnosis platforms, it is important to remember that these claims have not been scientifically tested. You should be aware of such apps' limitations and recognize that your own experiences with the app may differ.
Best for Stress Relief: Digipill
Digipill
Digipill offers a wide variety of self-hypnosis exercises, allowing you to focus on the source of your stress and choose sessions that address your specific concerns.
ProsOffers various session lengths to fit your scheduleWide variety of session topics availableHas “pills” that represent different concernsChoose between subscription and a la carte plansConsLimited free optionsCost of sessions can add upSome users do not like the voice
ProsOffers various session lengths to fit your scheduleWide variety of session topics availableHas “pills” that represent different concernsChoose between subscription and a la carte plans
Offers various session lengths to fit your schedule
Wide variety of session topics available
Has “pills” that represent different concerns
Choose between subscription and a la carte plans
ConsLimited free optionsCost of sessions can add upSome users do not like the voice
Limited free options
Cost of sessions can add up
Some users do not like the voice
The Digipill app uses psychoacoustics techniques and a hypnosis style called neurolinguistic programming. Psychoacoustics is a field that studies our psychological responses to sounds.
Digipill contains hypnotic sessions focused on a wide range of topics, including stress relief, weight loss, smoking cessation, and motivation. These includes what the app calls a “T-Break,” which provides a quick, 15-minute session that will help you quickly relieve stress and achieve a sense of calm and confidence.
If you own an Apple Watch, you can also pair the app with your device to track your “mindful minutes,” or the time you spend each day engaged in mindful activities. You can also set up reminders designed to help you reduce stress and anxiety over the long term.
This app offers sessions to help with all kinds of things, including “creativity” and “closure.” Again, always remember that these claims have not been scientifically tested, and your experience may vary.
Best for Anxiety: Anxiety Free: iCan Hypnosis
Anxiety Free
ProsHelpful and informative introductionFree options availableEmphasis on treating anxietyConsOnly available on Apple devicesSound quality not as good as other appsUnable to skip the introduction
ProsHelpful and informative introductionFree options availableEmphasis on treating anxiety
Helpful and informative introduction
Free options available
Emphasis on treating anxiety
ConsOnly available on Apple devicesSound quality not as good as other appsUnable to skip the introduction
Only available on Apple devices
Sound quality not as good as other apps
Unable to skip the introduction
Anxiety Free: iCan Hypnosis is an app that claims to help decrease symptoms of anxiety through self-hypnosis. You’ll be guided through activities intended to help reduce anxious thoughts, which may help change how people respond to stress.
One study suggested that self-hypnosis could be an effective tool for lowering state anxiety, or situational anxiety that occurs due to a specific event such as taking an exam or having a medical procedure.It may also be beneficial for anxiety-related conditions, such as tension headaches and irritable bowel syndrome.
As you begin using the app, it is recommended that you practice in a safe, quiet environment, free of background music and other distractions. The audio recordings included in it also contain messages that are purported to have a subconscious influence.
Final VerdictOur best overall pick,HypnoBox, is a great resource for self-hypnosis beginners and experts alike. Compared to other apps, HypnoBox has an abundance of resources and customizable features. Whether you’re seeking a hypnosis app for relaxation or to break an unwanted habit, Hynpobox has the tools for you.Compare the Best Hypnosis AppsAppCostPlatformLibrary SizeHypnoBox:Best Overall$13 for one month, $40 for six months, $200 for lifetimeApple, Google Play600 audio elementsRelax and Sleep Well Hypnosis:Best for Relaxation$3 per sessionApple, Google Play6 free + 140 recordings to purchaseHarmony Hypnosis Meditation:Best for Mood$13/month, $60/year, $200/lifetimeApple, Google Play, Web App, Kindle7-day free trial + additional content with a subscriptionLose Weight Hypnosis:Best for Weight Loss$6 per packageAppleOne free recording + upgrade for more featuresDigipill:Best for Stress ReliefFree; in-app products range from $2 to $7 eachApple, Google Play, KindleOne free + 21 recordings to purchaseAnxiety Free:iCan Hypnosis:Best for Anxiety$1 for lifetime accessAppleOne recordingFrequently Asked QuestionsHypnosiscan induce a state of focused attention and increase your capacity to respond to suggestions. While in ahypnotic state, people often describe feeling deeply focused, very relaxed, open-minded, and even somewhat detached.Although there can be overlap between the two, hypnosis is a state of focused attention in which people can be more responsive to suggestions. Meditation, on the other hand, is using one of several techniques to train attention and awareness with the purpose of achieving mental clarity, calmness, and stability.Basically, self-hypnosis is a deeply relaxed state where you are in a very focused and suggestible state of mind. Using one of the recommended apps can be a great tool to facilitate hypnotizing yourself. Or, you can try these steps:Get into comfortable clothes and a comfortable position.Close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply.Choose a goal, such as reducing anxiety, sleeping better, or breaking a specific habit.Continue to relax, focusing on your breath and breathing slowly.Visualize yourself in a peaceful, happy place.Visualize yourself accomplishing your goal.When ready, return to an awake state and your physical surroundings.The goals of self-hypnosis apps like those presented here are to help you tackle mental health and behavioral goals, whether you want to sleep better, lose weight, improve your mood, or make some other type of behavioral change. While you won’t achieve instant results, learning self-hypnosis may be a useful skill to help calm your mind and body.There is limited research on the effectiveness of hypnosis as a treatment for insomnia, stress, anxiety, weight loss, and quitting smoking or drinking alcohol.Results from existing studies are inconsistent and the number of participants is often too small. In addition, the hypnosis technique used in the studies varies, making it difficult to compare results to other studies.MethodologyWe tested several apps in each category to determine which are the easiest to use and have the most features available. The best hypnosis apps enabled us to choose sessions for a targeted goal, whether it was to relax, fall asleep, or get motivated. In addition, we sought out apps that are easy to use, so you can pop on a pair of headphones and quickly begin a session without having to spend time figuring it out.
Our best overall pick,HypnoBox, is a great resource for self-hypnosis beginners and experts alike. Compared to other apps, HypnoBox has an abundance of resources and customizable features. Whether you’re seeking a hypnosis app for relaxation or to break an unwanted habit, Hynpobox has the tools for you.
Compare the Best Hypnosis Apps
AppCostPlatformLibrary SizeHypnoBox:Best Overall$13 for one month, $40 for six months, $200 for lifetimeApple, Google Play600 audio elementsRelax and Sleep Well Hypnosis:Best for Relaxation$3 per sessionApple, Google Play6 free + 140 recordings to purchaseHarmony Hypnosis Meditation:Best for Mood$13/month, $60/year, $200/lifetimeApple, Google Play, Web App, Kindle7-day free trial + additional content with a subscriptionLose Weight Hypnosis:Best for Weight Loss$6 per packageAppleOne free recording + upgrade for more featuresDigipill:Best for Stress ReliefFree; in-app products range from $2 to $7 eachApple, Google Play, KindleOne free + 21 recordings to purchaseAnxiety Free:iCan Hypnosis:Best for Anxiety$1 for lifetime accessAppleOne recordingFrequently Asked QuestionsHypnosiscan induce a state of focused attention and increase your capacity to respond to suggestions. While in ahypnotic state, people often describe feeling deeply focused, very relaxed, open-minded, and even somewhat detached.Although there can be overlap between the two, hypnosis is a state of focused attention in which people can be more responsive to suggestions. Meditation, on the other hand, is using one of several techniques to train attention and awareness with the purpose of achieving mental clarity, calmness, and stability.Basically, self-hypnosis is a deeply relaxed state where you are in a very focused and suggestible state of mind. Using one of the recommended apps can be a great tool to facilitate hypnotizing yourself. Or, you can try these steps:Get into comfortable clothes and a comfortable position.Close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply.Choose a goal, such as reducing anxiety, sleeping better, or breaking a specific habit.Continue to relax, focusing on your breath and breathing slowly.Visualize yourself in a peaceful, happy place.Visualize yourself accomplishing your goal.When ready, return to an awake state and your physical surroundings.The goals of self-hypnosis apps like those presented here are to help you tackle mental health and behavioral goals, whether you want to sleep better, lose weight, improve your mood, or make some other type of behavioral change. While you won’t achieve instant results, learning self-hypnosis may be a useful skill to help calm your mind and body.There is limited research on the effectiveness of hypnosis as a treatment for insomnia, stress, anxiety, weight loss, and quitting smoking or drinking alcohol.Results from existing studies are inconsistent and the number of participants is often too small. In addition, the hypnosis technique used in the studies varies, making it difficult to compare results to other studies.MethodologyWe tested several apps in each category to determine which are the easiest to use and have the most features available. The best hypnosis apps enabled us to choose sessions for a targeted goal, whether it was to relax, fall asleep, or get motivated. In addition, we sought out apps that are easy to use, so you can pop on a pair of headphones and quickly begin a session without having to spend time figuring it out.
Frequently Asked QuestionsHypnosiscan induce a state of focused attention and increase your capacity to respond to suggestions. While in ahypnotic state, people often describe feeling deeply focused, very relaxed, open-minded, and even somewhat detached.Although there can be overlap between the two, hypnosis is a state of focused attention in which people can be more responsive to suggestions. Meditation, on the other hand, is using one of several techniques to train attention and awareness with the purpose of achieving mental clarity, calmness, and stability.Basically, self-hypnosis is a deeply relaxed state where you are in a very focused and suggestible state of mind. Using one of the recommended apps can be a great tool to facilitate hypnotizing yourself. Or, you can try these steps:Get into comfortable clothes and a comfortable position.Close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply.Choose a goal, such as reducing anxiety, sleeping better, or breaking a specific habit.Continue to relax, focusing on your breath and breathing slowly.Visualize yourself in a peaceful, happy place.Visualize yourself accomplishing your goal.When ready, return to an awake state and your physical surroundings.The goals of self-hypnosis apps like those presented here are to help you tackle mental health and behavioral goals, whether you want to sleep better, lose weight, improve your mood, or make some other type of behavioral change. While you won’t achieve instant results, learning self-hypnosis may be a useful skill to help calm your mind and body.There is limited research on the effectiveness of hypnosis as a treatment for insomnia, stress, anxiety, weight loss, and quitting smoking or drinking alcohol.Results from existing studies are inconsistent and the number of participants is often too small. In addition, the hypnosis technique used in the studies varies, making it difficult to compare results to other studies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hypnosiscan induce a state of focused attention and increase your capacity to respond to suggestions. While in ahypnotic state, people often describe feeling deeply focused, very relaxed, open-minded, and even somewhat detached.
Although there can be overlap between the two, hypnosis is a state of focused attention in which people can be more responsive to suggestions. Meditation, on the other hand, is using one of several techniques to train attention and awareness with the purpose of achieving mental clarity, calmness, and stability.
Basically, self-hypnosis is a deeply relaxed state where you are in a very focused and suggestible state of mind. Using one of the recommended apps can be a great tool to facilitate hypnotizing yourself. Or, you can try these steps:Get into comfortable clothes and a comfortable position.Close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply.Choose a goal, such as reducing anxiety, sleeping better, or breaking a specific habit.Continue to relax, focusing on your breath and breathing slowly.Visualize yourself in a peaceful, happy place.Visualize yourself accomplishing your goal.When ready, return to an awake state and your physical surroundings.
Basically, self-hypnosis is a deeply relaxed state where you are in a very focused and suggestible state of mind. Using one of the recommended apps can be a great tool to facilitate hypnotizing yourself. Or, you can try these steps:
The goals of self-hypnosis apps like those presented here are to help you tackle mental health and behavioral goals, whether you want to sleep better, lose weight, improve your mood, or make some other type of behavioral change. While you won’t achieve instant results, learning self-hypnosis may be a useful skill to help calm your mind and body.
There is limited research on the effectiveness of hypnosis as a treatment for insomnia, stress, anxiety, weight loss, and quitting smoking or drinking alcohol.Results from existing studies are inconsistent and the number of participants is often too small. In addition, the hypnosis technique used in the studies varies, making it difficult to compare results to other studies.
We tested several apps in each category to determine which are the easiest to use and have the most features available. The best hypnosis apps enabled us to choose sessions for a targeted goal, whether it was to relax, fall asleep, or get motivated. In addition, we sought out apps that are easy to use, so you can pop on a pair of headphones and quickly begin a session without having to spend time figuring it out.
5 Sources
Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Williamson A.What is hypnosis and how might it work?.Palliat Care. 2019;12:117822421982658. doi:10.1177/1178224219826581
Melike DEMİR DOGAN, Burak Çağrı AĞÇAY, Tuğba GÖKÇE. The Effect of Self-Hypnosis on Exam Anxiety and Stress Among University Students, ARC Journal of Nursing and Healthcare. 2018; 4(1): 28- 32. doi: dx.doi.org/ 10.20431/2455-4324.0401004.
Hammond DC. Hypnosis in the treatment of anxiety- and stress-related disorders. Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics. 2010;10(2):263-273.
Chamine I, Atchley R, Oken BS.Hypnosis intervention effects on sleep outcomes: A systematic review.J Clin Sleep Med. 2018;14(2):271-283. doi:10.5664/jcsm.6952
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