When most people hear the word "hypnosis," they immediately think of stage hypnosis. This is the popular show in which a hypnotist selects seemingly random people, puts them to sleep, and then forces them to perform hilarious (and somewhat mean) tricks for laughs. Stage hypnosis, as entertaining as it is, has little to do with clinical hypnosis. The latter is a recognised form of therapy that assists people in overcoming various ailments through a relaxed mind and strategic suggestion.