Does 'manifesting' actually work? We asked the experts
It's coming to that time of year again when many of us will make New Year's resolutions in a bid to kick start some positive habits. Could the popular method of 'manifesting' help us actually achieve them?
'Manifesting' — the Cambridge Dictionary word of the year for 2024 — has gained popularity over the last few years as a way to make our goals more achievable using the power of the mind. To manifest, in a nutshell, is to imagine the outcome of your desires and focus your energy on future goals positively and confidently.
Roxie Nafousi's Manifest book series has sold over a million copies worldwide, and the influencer-turned-author is largely popular for putting this term in the spotlight. Her first book, titled Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life, was released in 2022 and sat in the Sunday Times bestseller list for 29 weeks, popular with readers for its accessible style.
While iterations of the term 'manifest' have been around since the Middle Ages, The term 'manifesting' as we know it was thought to be popularised in New Thought philosophy in the 19th Century, which looked at theories around the metaphysical and spirituality.
NLP (short for Neuro Linguistical Programming) is another mental process that links the power of positive thinking with a positive outcome. It was developed in the 1970s by Richard Bandler, John Grinder, and Frank Pucelik and, like manifesting, largely relies on anecdotal evidence.
What is manifesting?
Simply put, manifesting is the practice of thinking aspirational thoughts to make them part of our future reality.
Self-development coach and meditation leader Michelle Thomas, founder of Quinta Carvalhas retreat in Portugal, believes the popularity of manifesting and similar practices is part of a wider goal to live more intentionally.
"We have navigated global challenges and redefined our priorities, and a collective yearning has emerged — a desire to live more intentionally," she explains. "The beauty of manifesting lies in its accessibility. It invites everyone, no matter their background or beliefs, to dream boldly and take charge of their future."
Some experts say we are always manifesting, every single day, often without being conscious of it. But it's not quite as simple as thinking of what you want, and it will suddenly magically appear. Experts delve into this more below...
Does manifesting really work?
The evidence of manifesting working is largely anecdotal. Some swear by its effects, while others think it's coincidental. It's impossible to give a definitive answer to this, but Michelle argues that while not everyone believes in the purely esoteric, manifesting also aligns with psychological principles.
She explains that manifesting taps into the brain's "Reticular Activating System (RAS)," and "this part of the brain filters information and helps you notice opportunities that align with your goals", as well as "neuroplasticity," which refers to "repeated thoughts and behaviours can rewire the brain, making it easier to adopt habits and mindsets that support your goals".
However, seeing manifesting play out with her clients has given Michelle the most confidence in it. She tells Country Living: "It definitely works. I consistently manifest many things, from our retreat centre and business partnerships to smaller things like parking spaces.
"I also coach my clients to manifest their goals. Many have manifested dream careers and new relationships, and some have simply manifested feeling good about life."
Rhea Freeman, a business mentor, NLP Master Practitioner and author of upcoming book, You've Got This, argues that manifesting can work, but it needs to be teamed with action.
She explains: "The best way to ensure manifestation works is also to take action. Definitely think about what you want and keep it front of mind; you're then more likely to see opportunities that align with it and can get you closer to what you want.
"But I also think it’s really important to take positive actions. If you want a new career, for example, absolutely think about it; create visual reminders like vision boards, then reverse engineer that objective and start creating a step-by-step plan that will help you get there."
How to manifest effectively
Our experts share their tips on how to manifest effectively below:
Be clear on what you want. "Manifesting starts with clarity," Michelle explains. "You decide what you want—whether it's a specific goal, experience, or change in your life. The key is to be specific and intentional. For example, instead of saying, 'I want to be happy,' you might say, 'I want a fulfilling career that aligns with my passions'."
Concentrate on how you want to feel. If you want more love in your life, set your intention to be more loving. If you seek kindness, focus your energy on empathy and compassion. It all starts with you. Not the 'thing'.
Instead of saving your manifesting practices for 'special' places and times. Infuse them into your daily life, the experts advise.
Gratitude is the fastest route to peace and, ultimately, happiness. There’s always something to be grateful for, say the experts. Finding something — anything — to be grateful for when you’re feeling low is a life-changing practice. Michelle explains: "Gratitude helps shift your focus to abundance rather than lack. By appreciating what you already have, you create a positive mindset that supports your manifesting efforts."
Aromatherapy Therapeutic Pulse Point Rollerball
£10.50 at Country Living Marketplace
Sleep Rattan Reed Diffuser
£24.50 at Country Living Marketplace
Lavender and Chamomile Eye Pillow
£26.00 at Country Living Marketplace
Restful Slumber Handmade Soap
£6.50 at Country Living Marketplace
Confetti Long Sleeve Top and Trousers Pyjama Set
£75.00 at Country Living Marketplace
Luxury Ayurvedic Gift Set For Her
£36.00 at Country Living Marketplace
Wellbeing Gift Box
£38.00 at Country Living Marketplace
Revive Body Brush with Coir Handle
£18.90 at Country Living Marketplace
Eco Hair Care Gift Set
£28.00 at Country Living Marketplace
You Might Also Like
