To even qualify as a volunteer, you have to pass through a set of tests (such as raising your hands in the air at the hypnotist’s suggestions). If you don’t pass those tests, or if you don’t behave ...

But hypnosis has a surprisingly robust scientific framework. Clinical research has shown that it can help relieve pain and anxiety and aid smoking cessation, weight loss, and sleep. It can help ...

Stage hypnotist Rich Guzzi has learned to expect the unexpected. In one memorable performance, he instructed 15 hypnotized audience volunteers to compose and perform a rap song onstage — in Chinese.