How to Find the Right Self-Hypnosis Audio for Real Change
Updated: Sep 4
Choosing a self-hypnosis download can be difficult when there are so many recordings available. Some are created by qualified hypnotherapists, while others give very little information about who created them or the approach being used.
The best self-hypnosis download for you isn't necessarily the most expensive or the most popular. It should address the specific issue you want help with, come from a source you trust and be something you feel comfortable listening to regularly.
I'm Sharon Shinwell, a UK clinical hypnotherapist, counsellor and psychotherapist with more than 25 years' experience. In this guide, I'll explain what I believe you should look for when choosing a self-hypnosis audio, as well as some of the things I'd be cautious about.
New to self-hypnosis? If you'd like to understand how it works, what it feels like and what it may help with before choosing a recording, read my Complete Guide to Self-Hypnosis.
How Do Self-Hypnosis Downloads Work?
A self-hypnosis recording usually combines relaxation, focused attention and guided suggestions related to a particular goal or problem.
Rather than receiving hypnosis from a therapist in a face-to-face session, you listen to a prerecorded session in your own time. Depending on the recording, the suggestions might focus on areas such as confidence, sleep, anxiety, habits or fears and phobias.
One advantage of an audio recording is that you can listen repeatedly. Becoming familiar with the session can also make it easier to settle into the experience without wondering what is coming next.
If you've never experienced self-hypnosis before, you can try self-hypnosis for free with one of our introductory recordings.
Self-Hypnosis Downloads or In-Person Hypnotherapy?
Neither option is right for everybody.
Working directly with a hypnotherapist allows the sessions to be tailored to you and gives you the opportunity to discuss your individual circumstances. This can be particularly important when dealing with complicated or serious psychological difficulties.
A self-hypnosis download, on the other hand, can be a convenient and affordable option for people looking for support with a clearly defined issue.
With a downloadable recording, you can:
Listen privately in your own home.
Repeat the session as often as recommended.
Choose a recording addressing a particular issue.
Listen at a time that suits you.
Pay considerably less than you would for individual hypnotherapy sessions.
The important thing is to choose the option that is appropriate for what you are experiencing.
How Do I Choose the Best Self-Hypnosis Download?
There isn't one recording that will be the "best" for everyone. I would look at several things before buying.
Check Who Created the Recording
Find out who is behind the audio.
Look for information about their qualifications, professional experience and background. A reputable provider should make this information easy to find rather than simply presenting an anonymous recording.
You can, for example, read about my qualifications and professional background before deciding whether one of my recordings is right for you.
Choose an Audio for the Specific Problem
A general relaxation recording can be useful when you simply want to unwind, but if you are trying to address a particular problem, choose something specifically created for it.
Someone frightened of driving has different thoughts and triggers from someone struggling with confidence or trying to change an unwanted habit.
Look for recordings that clearly explain who they are intended for and what the session focuses on.
At Self Hypnosis UK, recordings are grouped into areas including:
Fears & Phobias — including fear of driving, flying and other specific fears.
Habits & Addictions — including smoking, problematic drinking and unwanted habits.
Personal Development — including confidence, motivation and self-esteem.
Health & Wellbeing — including sleep, stress and other wellbeing concerns.
Read the Description Before Buying
A good product description should tell you considerably more than the title.
Look for information about what the recording addresses, how it should be used, approximately how long it lasts and any important safety information.
You should have a reasonable idea of what you're buying before you pay for it.
Consider the Voice and Listening Experience
This is easily overlooked.
You may be listening to the same voice repeatedly, so it matters whether you find that voice comfortable and easy to listen to.
If a provider offers a free sample, listen before buying. It gives you an opportunity to experience the voice and style rather than choosing purely from a written description.
Look for Realistic Claims
Be wary of recordings promising instant transformations or guaranteed results.
Self-hypnosis isn't magic, and no responsible provider can guarantee that everybody will respond in exactly the same way.
For example, a positive body image self-hypnosis recording isn't going to physically change your body. Its purpose is to help you work on the thoughts, feelings and self-criticism associated with how you see yourself.
Similarly, weight management self-hypnosis should support healthier attitudes and behaviours rather than promise effortless weight loss without changes to eating or activity.
Realistic explanations are a much better sign than dramatic promises.
Are Free Self-Hypnosis Downloads Worth Trying?
They can be, particularly if you've never experienced hypnosis before.
A free recording gives you an opportunity to discover whether you enjoy the experience and whether you are comfortable with the provider's voice and style before spending any money.
A free taster isn't necessarily intended to address a particular problem in depth. Think of it as an introduction to the experience rather than evidence that a paid recording will or won't work for you.
If you're new to hypnosis, you can listen to my free 10-minute self-hypnosis taster before deciding whether you'd like to explore it further.
Are More Expensive Hypnosis Downloads Better?
Not necessarily.
Price alone tells you very little about the quality of a recording. Equally, a low-priced download isn't automatically poor quality.
I'd pay more attention to who created it, their qualifications, whether the recording addresses your particular problem, the information provided before purchase and whether you are comfortable with the voice and approach.
Those factors are much more useful than judging an audio simply by price.
Is It Safe to Use Self-Hypnosis Recordings?
For many people, self-hypnosis is a relaxing experience, but it should always be used appropriately.
Never listen to hypnosis while driving, operating machinery or doing anything that requires your full attention.
There are also circumstances where self-hypnosis may not be appropriate. If you have a serious mental health condition, significant medical concerns or are uncertain whether hypnosis is suitable for you, speak to an appropriate healthcare professional before using it.
Always read the safety information supplied with the recording.
Which Self-Hypnosis Download Should I Choose?
Start with the problem you actually want help with.
Then look for a recording specifically addressing that issue, check who created it, read about their qualifications and experience, and make sure the description clearly explains what you're buying.
If possible, listen to a sample of the provider's voice before purchasing.
The best self-hypnosis download for you is ultimately one that addresses the right problem, comes from a credible source and feels comfortable enough that you'll actually use it as recommended.
I've created a range of self-hypnosis audio downloads based on more than 25 years of experience working as a clinical hypnotherapist, counsellor and psychotherapist. If you'd like to see whether there's a recording for the issue you're dealing with, you can browse the Self Hypnosis UK store
