Mesmerism is a non-verbal, no contact relaxation technique which produces an altered state of awareness by working directly on the bio-energetic field of the body. This technique may be used in addition to hypnotherapy, or as a stand alone therapeutic method. It allows the sufferer the opportunity to take a step back from being focused on repetitious thoughts, so creating the possibility for change and greater centeredness.It is often also the treatment of choice in helping release free-floating anxiety. Probably best described by the results it brings about, the following are self reports from subjects in a study conducted by Dr James McGarry (1980) in answer to the question “how did that feel?”
"So beautiful. I was just a point of consciousness floating on waves of energy. I felt so safe".
"Not relaxed. But funny. I lost my body just following my thoughts. Then I lost myself".
"Quiet, sedate. No thoughts. Just feeling lighter”.
Mesmerism is often and incorrectly considered to be a primitive forerunner to hypnosis.
Reference McGarry, James (1980) MESMERISM vs HYPNOSIS: A Comparison Of Relaxation Responses And Evaluation Of Mental And Psychophysiological Outcomes. The Australian Journal of Clinical Hypnotherapy and Hypnosis Vol.8 -number 1 - March 1987