The eyes have always held a special place in mesmerism. Early magnetisers believed that a steady gaze could carry concentrated attention and energy, and later practitioners developed what became known as fascination—a method of using a fixed, focused gaze as part of inducing a relaxed, absorbed state.
This article explains the fascination gaze technique, where it comes from, and safe solo exercises for developing a steady, focused gaze.
What Is Fascination in Mesmerism?
In 19th-century mesmerism and early hypnotism, “fascination” referred to the use of a steady gaze to hold a subject’s attention and guide them into a state of deep focus or trance.
The underlying principle is concentrated attention. When two people hold a calm, steady gaze in a consenting, structured setting, attention narrows, peripheral awareness fades and relaxation can deepen.
Understanding the Fascination Gaze
A fascination gaze is not a hard, aggressive stare. It is:
- Steady — the eyes rest on one point without darting;
- Soft — facial muscles relaxed, no frowning or tension;
- Present — the mind is calm and fully focused;
- Relaxed in blinking — natural blinking is allowed; the aim is calm, not strain.
In mesmerism training, the gaze is typically directed at the root of the nose, between the eyebrows, rather than into the pupils.
Safe Solo Eye Fascination Exercises
Exercise 1: The Dot on the Wall
- Draw a small dark dot on white paper and fix it at eye level about one metre away.
- Sit comfortably and breathe slowly.
- Rest your gaze softly on the dot for one minute, then close your eyes and rest.
Exercise 2: Candle Gazing (Trataka)
- Place a candle at eye level about 60–90 cm away in a room without draughts.
- Gaze softly at the flame for one to two minutes.
- Close your eyes and observe the afterimage until it fades.
Exercise 3: The Mirror Gaze
- Sit in front of a mirror about an arm’s length away.
- Gaze softly at the point between your own eyebrows for one to three minutes.
From Hardik’s practice: At The Golden Lotus, we train students to approach the fascination gaze not as an imposing stare, but as an energetic mirror of absolute presence. When the practitioner’s mind is completely quiet, the receiver’s inner dialogue spontaneously stills.
Learn Fascination in a Guided Setting
The fascination gaze is best learned with direct feedback from an experienced teacher. Explore the Mesmerism Course, and build supporting skills through Personal Energy Magnetism Training.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the fascination gaze the same as hypnosis?
It is related. Fascination is a gaze-based method from mesmerism; hypnosis uses many induction methods, including eye fixation.
Where should I look during fascination practice?
Most traditions train the gaze at the root of the nose between the eyebrows rather than directly into the pupils.
Disclaimer: Mesmerism and related practices are complementary practices for training and personal development.
Have Questions About This Practice?
Whether you want to learn Reiki, explore Mesmerism, or book a 1-on-1 private energy alignment session, we welcome your questions.
