Manifesting isn't all "woo-woo." Science says you can train your brain

"The late James Doty, a neurosurgeon and professor at Stanford University, wrote in his 2024 book "Mind Magic" about how meditation paired with repetition of messages can change a person's subconscious. This could look like closing your eyes before bed to relax, meditating and visualizing an intention like earning a new job title or mastering piano. Afterward, write the intention on a piece of paper and keep it nearby, reading it often."

"Manifesting can't fix all suffering, Doty wrote, but "if there is a possibility of change, using the techniques of manifesting will more likely than not help bring it about." Positive thinking alone doesn't work, psychology professor Gabriele Oettingen's research has revealed - but believing you will succeed based on reason can. Framing is also important, some argue: Trying to manifest wealth isn't as helpful as pursuing a life full of meaning."

"Neuroplasticity, the brain'slifelong ability to change, is one reason manifesting may scientifically work. Through value tagging - how brains prioritize information - goals can become embedded into the deepest levels of the subconscious. Visualization is also a part of the process. Mental imagery triggers the selective attention system, "essentially hypnotizing our minds into recognizing that our intention is important," Doty wrote. (Some athletes use this technique to improve performance.)"

"Manifestation has roots in Hinduism and surged in popularity in 2006 with the release of "The Secret." That film and book were based on the "law of attraction" and received attention from notable media figures, including Oprah, but were also widely criticized for promises that financial gain could be a mere manifestation away. While aspects of manifesting do have research and some common sense behind them, many advocates often introduce elements of spirituality."

Meditation combined with repetition and written reminders can shape the subconscious by reinforcing intentions through repeated focus. Visualization and mental imagery activate selective attention and help prioritize goals via value tagging, embedding them deeper through neuroplastic changes. Reasoned belief and realistic planning improve outcomes more than positive thinking alone. Framing goals toward meaning rather than mere wealth increases beneficial effects. Manifestation practices trace back to Hindu traditions and rose in modern popularity in the early 2000s, often mixing scientific strategies with spiritual elements. Limits exist: manifesting cannot eliminate all suffering, but it can increase the probability of change when change is possible.

Read at Axios