What does it mean to be hypnotized?

Being hypnotized is a relationship between the hypnotist and the subject. It is not a matter of one person putting another to sleep or being in control of another person’s will. The hypnotist induces, by any of a number of methods, a state of willingness to cooperate in his subject. The subject’ awareness of his or her surroundings is severely limited and his attention is highly focused. His level of suggestibility is higher than normal but he does not lose control of himself.

To get a taste of what hypnosis means, here is a video that helps you to get yourself into a hypnotic trance.