If mesmerism has a signature technique, it is the pass—a slow, deliberate movement of the hands over a person’s body, usually without touching. Passes were central to Franz Anton Mesmer’s animal magnetism and are still taught in mesmerism and magnetic healing today.
This guide explains the main types of magnetic passes, the principles behind them and how a basic session is structured.
What Are Magnetic Passes?
Magnetic passes are hand movements made by a practitioner over the receiver’s body, typically a few centimetres away from the skin. In the mesmerism tradition, passes are believed to direct and balance the receiver’s energy (animal magnetism). From a modern perspective, the slow, rhythmic movements and calm presence also strongly support relaxation.
The Main Types of Mesmerism Healing Passes
Long Passes (Calming Passes)
The hands move slowly from the top of the head down the front of the body toward the feet, palms facing the receiver.
Purpose: relaxation, calming, and deepening a quiet, receptive state.
Short or Local Passes
Shorter movements over one particular area, such as the shoulders or the forehead.
Purpose: focusing attention on an area where the receiver feels tension.
Transverse (Lateral) Passes
The hands move sideways across the body, from the centre outward, as if gently clearing a surface.
Purpose: dispersing accumulated energy and closing or completing a session. In the tradition, these are also used to “demagnetise” and bring the receiver back to normal alertness.
Circular Passes
Slow circular movements over a specific area.
Purpose: gentle concentration of energy and attention on that area.
Upward Passes
Movements from lower to upper parts of the body.
Purpose: traditionally used to raise energy and help the receiver become alert after a deep session.
From Hardik’s practice: Students are often amazed at how quickly long downward passes induce spontaneous physical heaviness and deep relaxation in a partner, demonstrating the tangible reality of rhythmic, focused non-verbal intention.
Learn Passes with Hands-On Guidance
Passes are easiest to learn with live demonstration and feedback. Explore our Mesmerism Course, and build energy sensitivity through Personal Energy Magnetism Training and the Grand Master Magnetism Certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do magnetic passes involve touching?
Most are performed a few centimetres from the body. Some traditions use light contact, but only with consent.
What is the difference between long passes and transverse passes?
Long passes move downward to relax; transverse passes move sideways to clear and close a session.
Disclaimer: Mesmerism, magnetic passes and energy practices are complementary practices. They are not a substitute for medical diagnosis, treatment or mental-health care.
Have Questions About This Practice?
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