Healing Magnetism

Presentation

Healing magnetism is an ancient energy healing practice present in all human cultures under different names. In the West, its formalization dates back to the 18th century with Franz Anton Mesmer (1734–1815), an Austrian physician who theorized 'animal magnetism,' postulating the existence of a universal fluid circulating between all living beings. Mesmer considered disease the result of an imbalance in this fluid, which the magnetizer could restore through their hands.

The magnetizer (or healer) is someone who possesses, naturally or through development, an enhanced ability to channel and transmit this vital energy. Unlike Reiki which involves formal initiation, magnetism is often considered a natural gift that can be refined through practice and training. In France, healing magnetism is a particularly vibrant tradition, with many practitioners working complementarily with conventional medicine.

Historical figure: Franz Anton Mesmer (1734–1815)

Core Principles

Healing magnetism rests on several postulates:

• Every living being possesses an energy field (aura, etheric body)
• Disease is the manifestation of an imbalance in this field
• The magnetizer possesses surplus vital energy they can transmit
• Transmission occurs primarily through the hands (palms and fingers)
• The magnetizer's intention is fundamental in the healing process

The magnetizer works with their own energy (unlike a Reiki practitioner who channels universal energy). This distinction means the magnetizer must ensure their own energy recharging and protection against negative transfers.

Technical Details

Other names

Animal magnetism, mesmerism, magnetic healing, bioenergy

Session duration

30 to 60 minutes

Main techniques

Magnetic passes, laying on of hands, magnetic breath, gaze

Training

Variable, often empirical learning + specialized workshops

Complementary tools

Pendulum, dowsing rods (radiesthesia), magnets

Main Indications

• Burns (fire cutter) — effectiveness recognized in some hospital departments
• Shingles and neuropathic pain
• Warts and skin conditions
• Chronic pain (osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia)
• Stress, anxiety, insomnia
• Migraines and headaches
• Functional digestive disorders
• Support for chemotherapy side effects
• Allergies and intolerances

Session Overview

The magnetizer begins with an interview to understand the consultation reason and patient health history. They then perform an energy sensing, often passing hands a few centimeters from the body to detect areas of imbalance (heat, cold, tingling, density). Treatment uses different techniques as needed: magnetic passes (fluid hand movements along the body), laying on of hands, magnetic breath (warm or cold breath on the area), or distance work. The session ends with general rebalancing and energy hygiene advice.

Contraindications

• Never substitute magnetism for medical diagnosis or treatment
• Caution with pacemaker or defibrillator wearers
• Pregnancy: avoid direct work on the abdomen
• Severe unstabilized psychiatric disorders
• The magnetizer must ensure their own well-being before treating
• Risk of patient dependency to avoid (progressive autonomization)