Mesmerism refers to a theory and practice developed in the late eighteenth century by Franz Anton Mesmer, based on the idea that a universal fluid or “animal magnetism” flows through living beings and influences physical and mental health. Mesmer believed that disturbances in this fluid caused illness and that healing could be achieved by restoring balance through techniques such as passes of the hands, magnets, or focused interpersonal interaction. Although the scientific basis of animal magnetism was later rejected, mesmerism occupies an important place in the history of mental health because it shifted attention toward psychological