We are all exposed to hypnosis in popular culture. We see it portrayed in movies and TV shows, hear it in the lyrics of songs; there is even a whole genre of music called Trance. But what is it really? What is the experience like, and how is it useful? What is the relationship between hypnosis and trance, and between trance and things we experience in our daily life?

In this class, Felix will discuss the nature of human consciousness, perception, and memory, as they relate to the experience of trance. He will describe and demonstrate how trance is achieved, and teach some basic techniques anyone can use with themselves or their partner. He will talk about how hypnosis is used in therapy and coaching, as well as how it can be applied to all sorts of play. Because of the popular image of hypnosis, many people assume that it is inherently a form of power exchange. Felix will explore this area, and suggest a different way of looking at the nature of trance.

Felix will also discuss the nature of consent in hypnotic play. Consent and choice are important elements in D/s play, and many people who come to hypnosis from D/s try to apply the same standards and techniques for obtaining consent to hypnotic encounters. The emergence of unconscious desires in trance, the nature of "trance logic", and the frequent limitations on verbal communication in this state, all make these conventional approaches problematic, particularly when pursuing edgy sorts of play.

There will be a number of demonstrations, and some opportunities to practice with a partner, with Felix available for coaching. We can promise an interesting -- and trancy -- time!

Class from 4-6pm, doors open at 3:30pm
Cost: $20 at the door, or $15 in advance

About the presenter:
Felix has had a lifelong interest in hypnosis, but he began studying in earnest to be a hypnotist about five years ago. He has two certifications in conversational hypnotherapy, from 2011 and 2013, and he continues to attend regular workshops and supervisions in this area.

Felix teaches regularly at the local hypnosis meet-ups held in San Francisco and San Jose, and he recently taught a number of classes at the WEEHU conference here in San Francisco.

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