JOEL - We have been advised by our church leaders to avoid most types of hypnotism that result in the turning over control of our own minds to someone else for the purpose of making us do something that we would not normaly do. Our free agency is very important to us. A hypnotic state can take away that free agency and leave us vulnerable to commiting inappropriate behavior.
The only form of hypnotism that we would allow ourselves to be subjected to is the hypnotherapy that is sometimes used by reputable doctors in connection with the practice of their profession. Some forms of hypnotherapy can be beneficial for relieving pain and improving our state of mind.
According to church policy:
"The use of hypnosis under competent, professional medical supervision for the treatment of diseases or mental disorders is a medical question to be determined by competent medical authorities. Members should not participate in hypnosis for purposes of demonstration or entertainment.(Church Handbook of Instructions, p. 155)