Hypnosis is an extremely powerful tool that can be useful for several reasons. Recreational hypnosis is a safe alternative to drugs because the altered state the mind goes into is only temporary. Hypnosis can enable people to sleep and improve their sleep quality. Because the mind and body become deeply relaxed while in trance, hypnosis can also be used as an aid in meditation. The trance-like state induced by hypnosis doesn't damage the brain the way drugs and alcohol do. Ultimately, it can be used to improve upon areas of life or let people escape their troubles briefly.

There are several different methods of hypnosis available. Therapists and other professionals certified to induce hypnosis can hypnotize individuals to help them improve upon areas of their life — such as enabling them to quit smoking, or even experience past life regression, depending upon which hypnotist is used. The law regulates hypnosis and hypnotherapy like any other business, but only a select few states in America require licensing.

According to the Hypnotist's Union, "The majority of the United States exert little or no direct regulation over the practice of Hypnosis or Hypnotherapy, although other laws generally affecting the operation of any business will usually apply. [...] Colorado, Connecticut, and Washington are states that require mandatory licensure or registration.California, Florida, Illinois, New Jersey, Texas and Utah do not have mandatory registration, but do lay out specific regulations for the practice of hypnotism and guidelines for licensure exemption."

Types of recreational hypnosis available include hypnosis shows, hypnosis websites and even one-on-one hypnosis. Like many, Kevin Hurley's famous hypnosis comedy show is guaranteed to be a fantastic time, whether you're in the audience or up on stage getting hypnotized. Online websites such as Hypno-files.com offer mp3 files, which are available for download that can be used as many times as desired. Also available from these websites are as written out hypnosis scripts that walk the individual through the steps to induce a trance. Depending upon the file, and website, some files are free while others cost money. Most times, one-on-one hypnosis and shows cost money. Then again, hypnosis videos that are available on YouTube are free and available to anyone, so it all depends on the kind of hypnosis being sought.

For some, hypnosis offers escapism from reality because while under, the troubles of the everyday life are temporarily forgotten. The hypnotist creates a scenario that seems very real to the hypnotized, and their target subconsciously experiences it. Some say that hypnosis only works if you believe it works because it's centered around the power of suggestion, and in several cases, this is true. Those who believe hypnosis will work are more likely to be susceptible than non-believers. Being hypnotized can be very addictive and very rewarding because those being hypnotized will never be forced to do something they wouldn't ordinarily do since the entire time one is hypnotized, they remain in control of the situation to some degree. Because of the lack of harmful substances like drugs and alcohol in use, being hypnotized is a healthy alternative since the effects are only temporary, and it is a powerful tool for good.