Hypnosis traces its roots back to the late 18th century with Mesmer's concept of "animal magnetism," which offered a stark contrast to the brutal medical practices of the time, like bloodletting. Despite facing skepticism from the medical community, including a commission led by notable figures like Franklin, Mesmer's approach created a more uplifting environment for healing. This early exploration of the mind-body connection paved the way for future medical uses of hypnosis, demonstrating its potential to alleviate suffering.
