oint out that this is not
true. The subject can fail the eye test and yet have been under
hypnosis. In the deep, somnambulistic state, the subject can open his
eyes without affecting the depth of the hypnotic state. In fact, this is
done many times in getting the subject to do automatic writing, crystal
gazing, mirror gazing, hypnodrama and revivification. In carrying out
posthypnotic suggestions in any state, the subject is frequently told
that he will open his eyes and carry out the suggestion.

I have found that there is more anxiety connected with the eye test than
with any other test. I feel that it is a normal reaction and one that
must be anticipated by the hypnotist as well as the subject.
Occasionally, while hypnotizing a new subject, he will open his eyes.
This can happen when the subject feels he is losing consciousness. His
ability to open his eyes proves to him that he is in control. One of the
main fears that the subject has is his belief that he will lose
voluntary control of himself. The fact that he can open his eyes lessens
his anxiety.

If there seems to be too much threat to the individual, I use a method
that you can follow. Instead of suggesting that the subject will be
unable to open his eyes at a specific count, I suggest that he will be
so relaxed that it will be too much effort to open his eyes until a
further count is given. Actually, what could take less effort? Here are
suggestions you can use:

"As I count to three, I shall try to open my eyes, but I shall be unable
to do so because I feel so relaxed. It will just take too much effort to
open my eyes until I reach the count of five or tell myself to awaken.
One ... My eyes are closed, and I am in a very deep state of hypnosis.
Two ... My eyelids are stuck tightly together. Three ... It is now
impossible for me to open my eyes. I shall be able to open them though
at the count of five. Four ... I shall be able to open my eyes very
easily at the count of five. Five ... I can now open my eyes and wake
up feeling alert and fully refreshed."

In accomplishing the eye test, you try to create a vivid picture of
yourself being completely and fully relaxed. If you really exerted a
great deal of effort, you could open your eyes, but because of the
pleasantness of the completely relaxed state, you prefer not to do so.
It can be likened to your enduring the cold winter air when you are half
asleep in bed instead of getting up to close the window whi