Manifesting – the suggestion that you can turn a thought, an idea, or a vision into reality – is on the rise. But is there any science behind the strategy? H&W investigates...
Beyond
That promotion; good weather for the big day; your dream house – could the power of your mind really help create a more fulfilling life for yourself and those around you? Manifesting is basically having the belief that positive thinking can bring about change in the near future – be it relationship-based, orientated around family, or a career goal you’ve set your sights on – and it’s a technique that enables you to visualise your aims, and ultimately, the life that you want. New to this self-help exercise? We’ve garnered some of the best experts in the field to demystify the topic, diving into the know-how of strengthening your subconscious mind – and uncovering its potential dark side.
POSITIVELY CHARGED
The concept of good vibes is one that most people have experienced. Perhaps you’ve just interviewed for a job and the panel were welcoming and supportive or viewed a house that gives you a sense of kuma muta (AKA that warm, fuzzy feeling). The same can be said for the opposite too. How many first dates have turned up late and made a lousy excuse, giving bad vibes from the get-go? Those vibes refer to energy; we’re made up of the stuff – giving it off in fact – and that’s where manifesting comes in. Each thought or emotion you think or feel creates either a negative or positive vibration and manifestation is the idea you will attract into your life whatever you put your energy and focus on. “Manifestation is the practice of creating a clear vision for your future and by using positive thinking alongside other essential tools, you can make your goals and dreams a reality,” explains Salarah Starre, an advanced law of attraction coach (salarahstarre.com). “It works on the basic principle that like attracts like and what you think about will come about.”
A NEW WAVE
You’ve got to admit that the idea that the power of your thoughts can have a direct influence on reality is pretty liberating, but it may surprise you to know that using methods like intention or a positive mindset have been around for decades. “Just like different fashions come around, so does information, teachings and rituals, and normally, when the world finds itself in crises, we go back to these ways of thinking,” says Aysha Bell, a transformational coach who specialises in healing through sound, breathwork, journalling and manifesting (@ayshabellwellness). Aysha points to the 1920s guide
