Mesmerism

Mesmerism, named after Franz Mesmer, is an early form of hypnosis involving the use of focused attention and suggestive techniques to influence a person’s mental and physical state. Practitioners believed they could channel a universal "magnetic fluid" to induce a trance-like condition, which could help heal ailments or modify behavior. While the idea of a magnetic fluid is outdated, mesmeric techniques—such as inducing relaxation and heightened suggestibility—are foundational to modern hypnotherapy. Essentially, mesmerism is about guiding individuals into a focused state where their subconscious becomes more receptive to positive suggestions.