The following is part one of a multi-part-post on the concept and execution of “manifesting,” also known as “manifestation.”
“Manifestation” is quite the buzzword in the spiritual community these days. It’s thrown around by wealth gurus, spiritual teachers, and truth seekers alike. There are many books on this topic like The Law of Attraction, The Power of Awareness, and 8 Secrets to Powerful Manifesting, to name a few. I have included a more extensive list at the end of the post for anyone interested in further reading.
There are also a variety of programs and subscription services to help improve one’s manifestation ability, like To Be Magnetic (also here) and the many workshops of Dr. Joe Dispenza.
With the greater spiritual awakening that humankind is currently experiencing, a belief in manifestation is also on the rise. Yet, there is still a lot of confusion around what manifestation is and even more about how to do it.
Origins of Manifestation
The origins of manifestation are ancient. Belief in such a practice is present in many philosophical, spiritual, and religious traditions worldwide and throughout history. Examples of such beliefs are present in Hermeticism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, ancient Egyptian spirituality, and some indigenous belief systems. All these traditions have explored ideas related to the connection between the mind and reality. These traditions often emphasize the role of consciousness and intention in shaping one’s experiences.
With such a prevalent history, many ways to approach this idea have developed over time. The core tenet of manifestation is the understanding that we have an innate power to shape our material world. To do this, we must acknowledge that our thoughts, intentions, and actions influence our reality. By harnessing this power, we can shape our destiny. We can achieve success and abundance for ourselves and our loved ones, and improve our lives for the better.
Manifestation is not only about material desires but also personal and spiritual growth. The journey of manifestation is one of self-discovery. Through introspection, we can achieve personal transformation and alignment with one’s higher purpose.
Generally speaking, manifesting falls into the realms of spiritualism, mysticism, and metaphysics. For clarity, let’s define each and then discuss how they approach the topic of manifestation.
The Difference Between…
Spiritualism
In some way, shape, or form, spiritualism has existed for millennia and is an inherent trait of all early modern societies. Spiritualism is a belief system that explores the existence of non-physical realms. It emphasizes communication with spirits, including the angels, guides, ancestors, and one’s higher self. An integral part of spiritualism is the belief that consciousness continues after death. Also prominent is the belief that it is possible to communicate with unbodied consciousness through mediums, seances, or mediation.
Mysticism
Mysticism refers to a direct and personal experience of union and communion with the divine, or ultimate reality. It is often found in subsets of many religious traditions. It involves a deep sense of spiritual insight, connection, and transcendence beyond the material world. The mystic seeks to connect with the divine through practices like meditation, prayer, and contemplation. The goal of the mystic is self-transcendence. Mystics characterize their experiences as a sense of oneness and awe. The realization of a deeper truth beyond our ordinary perception is also a key principle of mystic belief.
Metaphysics
Metaphysics is a branch of philosophy that explores fundamental questions about the nature of reality. Addressing questions that go beyond empirical observation and scientific explanation, it focuses on the underlying principles that shape our universe. Metaphysics delves deep into what existence is, and the relationship between the physical and non-physical world. It also analyses abstract concepts like time, space, causality, consciousness, and the nature of being itself.
Multiple Means to the Same End…
We have established what manifesting is and the different channels used to practice it. Now, let’s look at the act of manifestation through the lens of each of the three approaches.
Manifestation and…
Spiritualism
From a spiritual standpoint, manifestation involves the recognition of an interconnectedness of all things. The objects of one’s desires, which originate in the spiritual or non-physical realm, are brought into physical reality. This relies on the power of the spiritual self to influence the material world. By aligning one’s consciousness and intentions with the universal energy, we co-create desired outcomes, experiences, and circumstances. It is a profound process that involves harmonizing the inner spiritual self with a greater spiritual reality.
Some key aspects of spiritual manifestation include:
Alignment with Higher Self
Manifestation begins by connecting to one’s higher self. The higher self is the spiritual aspect of us that is in tune to higher wisdom and divine guidance. This alignment helps us identify authentic desires that align with our spiritual journey.
Conscious Intentions
Setting clear and positive intentions is central to spiritual manifestation. By infusing our intentions with purpose, love, and higher consciousness, we allow them to resonate with the energy of creation.
Energetic Interaction
The understanding that thoughts, emotions, and intentions emit vibrations. These vibrations interact with the spiritual and energetic fabric of the universe. Maintaining positive and harmonious vibrations is essential for attracting aligned manifestations.
Trust and Release
The practice of surrender. This involves releasing attachment to outcomes. We must set an intention but then let go of our control over its unfolding. We must trust that universal wisdom will guide the manifestation process in the most appropriate way and with divine timing.
Visualization and Affirmation
Visualize the desired outcome and affirm its existence. This helps to create a mental blueprint that the universe can follow. This process amplifies the energy and intention behind the manifestations.
Gratitude
Expressing gratitude is an integral part of spiritual manifestation. Gratitude for not only what is but for what will be. This opens the heart and aligns the individual with the flow of abundance from the spiritual realm.
Co-Creation with the Divine
Spiritual manifestation acknowledges that the individual is not solely responsible for creation. It involves collaborating with the divine or universal consciousness. It is a recognition that the universe supports and responds to the individual’s intentions.
Mysticism
Like the spiritual approach, the mystical path to manifestation involves the alignment of intention and vibration. When these are in sync, the universal energy can bring our desires into physical reality. For the mystic, manifestation involves more than positive thinking. It’s about tapping into the deeper layers of reality and understanding our true desires. It involves harmonizing one’s inner self with the divine flow of the universe. This alignment requires a profound level of awareness, and connection to your higher self or spiritual essence.
The mystical approach to manifestation goes beyond the materialistic focus of acquiring things. It’s about a deeper understanding of our purpose. Through growth, and the transformation of our being. It’s a journey that involves both personal development and spiritual evolution. This allows us to take part in the realm of cosmic creation.
Key components of manifestation from a mystical perspective include:
Clear Intention
Define what you want to manifest. It is important to make sure that you understand what the underlying motivations and feelings behind your desires are. This requires significant self-reflection. A clear intention through self-analysis will help you to align your energic vibration with that of the universe.
Alignment
Achieving a state of alignment between thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and actions. This will help us resonate with the frequencies of the universe. Alignment is also present in our connection to source energy. By connecting to the universal consciousness, we can acknowledge that we are co-creating with the divine.
Vibrational Energy
The recognition that everything is energy and interconnected. Our thoughts and emotions emit vibrations that interact with the energetic nature of the cosmos. Feelings of love, for instance, involve higher frequencies than negative thoughts or feelings of anger or lack.
Maintaining a positive and elevated vibration is crucial for effective manifestation. We cannot sync up with higher vibrational states if we emit energy at lower vibrational frequencies than those of our desires.
Surrender
Letting go of attachment to outcomes and timing and trusting in the wisdom of the universe. It is essential to surrender the ego’s need for control over outcomes. Allow the divine flow of energy to guide the manifestation process. Surrendering is akin to a cosmic “set it and forget it.”
Visualization and Meditation
Engaging in practices of visualization through meditation. This will help to create a clear mental image of your desired manifestation. Through meditation, we can infuse our desires with positive emotions and intentions.
Gratitude
Expressing gratitude for what you already have and for the coming fulfillment of desires. Gratitude increases our vibrational energy. It opens us up for more blessings to flow into our lives.
Metaphysics
From a metaphysical point of view, manifestation refers to the process by which thoughts, beliefs, and intentions create the physical aspects of reality. Rooted in this idea is the fundamental interconnectedness between the mind, consciousness, and the external world. Our thoughts and energies have a direct influence on the nature of our experiences and the circumstances that appear in our lives.
This requires us to engage with the inherent creative power of consciousness and energy. Through energy, we align ourselves with the outcomes we wish to attract into our lives. By understanding the interplay between thoughts, feelings, and actions, we shape the physical reality we experience.
Metaphysical manifestation involves the following key principles:
Conscious Creation
At the core of metaphysical manifestation is the belief that consciousness is not passive. Our consciousness participates in shaping the world around us. Our thoughts, beliefs, and intentions have the potential to mold the energetic fabric of the universe. We can thus influence what we perceive in our reality.
Law of Attraction
Central to metaphysical manifestation is the law of attraction, which states that like attracts like. The energy we emit through our thoughts and emotions draws corresponding energies or experiences into our lives. Positive thoughts and emotions attract positive experiences, while negative ones attract negative experiences.
Energetic Alignment
Involves aligning our inner energies with the outcomes we desire. This alignment requires cultivating a harmonious resonance between conscious intentions and subconscious beliefs.
Subconscious Influence
Metaphysical manifestation recognizes the powerful role of the subconscious mind. Subconscious beliefs and patterns can either support or hinder our conscious intentions. We must clear limiting beliefs to manifest our desires. Introspection, journaling, meditation, or a psychedelic journey are effective tools for this.
Visualization and Affirmation
These are useful tools to help focus the mind and direct energy toward desired outcomes. By imagining a desired reality and affirming its existence, we amplify its potential to manifest.
Universal Energy
There is a universal energy that permeates everything. Recognizing its existence is a key tenant to a metaphysical manifestation practice. We must understand that this energy is responsive to our thoughts and intentions. With focused awareness, we can direct it to create our desired reality.
Cosmic Collaboration
Manifestation is a collaborative process between the individual and cosmic consciousness. We are not isolated beings, but rather an integral part of a vast interconnected whole.
Patience
Metaphysical manifestation recognizes the importance of divine timing and the need for patience. The universe brings forth our desires when the conditions are most favorable for their realization.
But Wait… There’s A Fourth Way To Manifest!
There is also a fourth way to achieve manifestation. I would like to discuss this before I wrap up the post. The fourth approach is:
Scientific
In this regard, the concept of manifestation is the interplay between psychological factors, behavioral responses, and the physical world. These interactions influence an individual’s experiences and the opportunities they attract. This perspective does not have to involve spiritual, mystical, or metaphysical elements, but it still can. It recognizes the significance of the roles of cognitive, emotional, and behavioral processes play. It also focuses on the importance of principles of modern physics, in shaping one’s reality.
A scientific approach to “manifestation” is the process by which an individual’s cognitive, emotional, and behavioral patterns influence their perceptions, attitudes, and decisions. These exert influence on the quantum field and the material world around them. This leads to a self-reinforcing cycle that affects experiences and outcomes.
The key elements of scientific manifestation are:
Cognitive and Emotional Patterns
Our thoughts, beliefs, and emotions play a central role in shaping our perceptions of reality. These patterns influence how we perceive the world. They influence our attitudes toward various situations and opportunities. A positive mindset is of the utmost importance. Negative thought patterns will trap us in limiting beliefs. These stifle motivation and hinder positive action. A positive outlook increases our self-worth and motivation. Positive emotional patterns help to open us up to opportunities otherwise unseen.
Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
Our perceptions and attitudes can trigger self-fulfilling prophecies, where our beliefs guide our behaviors and decisions. This leads to outcomes that align with those initial beliefs.
Behavioral Responses
Our beliefs and attitudes drive our actions and choices. They influence how we engage with the world and the opportunities it presents. If we act in a positive manner to whatever circumstance presents itself, we increase our ability to think and choose effectively.
Neuroplastic Feedback Loop
A cyclical process by which experiences from our behaviors reinforce our initial cognitive and emotional patterns. The brain can adapt and rewire itself based on experience. Thus, repeated patterns of thought and behavior can shape neural pathways. This impacts perceptions and outcomes. If we open our minds to the validity of manifestation and believe it to be real, our minds will rewire themselves to reinforce this belief.
Another way to explain this is through confirmation bias. When we seek or interpret information in ways that confirm existing beliefs, we reinforce our desires. This improves the likelihood of them coming into our reality. If we know manifestation to be true, we can look to our experience and see instances of desires coming true. This in turn reinforces our belief in manifestation and will thus lead to more desires coming to fruition.
The Key Aspects They All Share
Even though manifesting from a spiritual, mystical, metaphysical, or scientific perspective has its unique nuances, there are some key aspects that they all share. I’m sure you were able to identify the similarities already but I will clarify in case you missed something.
These shared aspects reflect the underlying principles that connect these viewpoints on manifestation. While the terminologies and contexts vary, they share some core ideas. They all emphasize the power of consciousness, and the alignment of our intention and energy. All four approaches include some degree of self-improvement and personal growth. They all aim to improve attitude, quiet the ego, and increase self-respect and self-worth.
Here are the common themes all four share:
Conscious Intention
Regardless of the perspective, all definitions emphasize the importance of setting clear intentions. This involves identifying the desires, goals, or outcomes that one seeks to bring into reality.
Energy and Vibration
The role of energy is central to any manifestation practice. Everything in the universe is interconnected by energy. When manifesting, one’s thoughts, intentions, emotions, and beliefs emit specific energetic vibrations that resonate with similar frequencies in the universe. Therefore, thoughts, emotions, and actions carry energy and this energy exerts influence on the world around us.
A positive mindset carries higher vibrational energy. Higher frequency energy syncs with like energy, and therefore attracts positive events towards us. Positive and focused energy aligns with desired outcomes, attracting them into one’s reality.
Alignment
All four perspectives recognize the significance of aligning one’s inner world with the desired external outcome. This alignment involves harmonizing thoughts, emotions, beliefs, and actions to create a unified energy that resonates with the intended manifestation. This energetic alignment facilitates the flow of opportunities, people, and circumstances that support the manifestation process.
Visualization and Affirmation
Visualizing and affirming the desired outcome are common practices across these perspectives. By creating a vivid mental image and affirming the reality of the manifestation, individuals channel focused energy toward their goals.
Co-Creation
All definitions involve an element of co-creation. Individuals work in partnership with a higher power, cosmic force, universal consciousness, or natural forces to bring about their desires.
Trust and Release
There is an acknowledgment of the need to let go of attachment to outcomes and trust in the process. Surrendering control and having faith in the universe’s wisdom and timing are key components.
Personal Growth and Transformation
All perspectives recognize that manifestation is not only about acquiring material things. It is also about personal growth, self-discovery, and transformation. Engaging in the manifestation process can lead to deeper insights and spiritual evolution. We must manifest our desires from a higher level of energetic vibration. We need to look within and determine what is holding us back. Then we can strive to change our tendencies toward lower-frequency thoughts, feelings,, and actions.
No Matter the Approach, Manifestation Is a Positive Practice
The practice of manifestation, regardless of the perspective you approach it from (mystical, metaphysical, spiritual, or scientific), can bring about many positive benefits that enhance various aspects of your life.
Here are some common positive outcomes associated with practicing manifestation:
Clarity and Focus
Manifesting requires you to define your desires and intentions. This clarity and focus spill over into other areas of your life, helping you set clear goals and make purposeful decisions.
Positive Mindset
Manifestation involves cultivating a positive mindset and directing it toward your desired outcomes. Positive thinking can lead to improved mental well-being, reduced stress, and increased resilience.
Increased Awareness
As you become more attuned to your desires and intentions, and the energetic flow of nature, you also become more mindful of your thoughts, emotions, and actions. This heightened awareness leads to greater self-discovery and personal growth.
Empowerment
Manifestation empowers you to take an active role in shaping your reality. This sense of agency can boost your self-confidence and belief in your ability to influence your circumstances.
Positive Habits
Manifestation involves adopting positive practices such as visualization, self-love, gratitude, and affirmations. Integrating these into your daily life will help you establish healthy habits that support your well-being. Align yourself with positive thoughts and emotions, and you will attract positive experiences and people into your life.
Reduced Limiting Beliefs
Engaging in manifestation prompts you to confront and overcome limiting beliefs. These limiting beliefs hold you back from achieving your potential. By reducing limiting beliefs, you boost your natural potential.
Personal Transformation
The journey of manifestation is not only about external outcomes. It leads to inner transformation, self-discovery, and an expanded sense of awareness.
Alignment with Purpose
Manifestation encourages you to explore your deepest desires and align with your true purpose. This can lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
A Final Thought…
It’s important to note that the benefits of manifestation can vary from person to person. The effectiveness of the practice might depend on several factors: belief systems, dedication, and the specific techniques used.
Regardless, approaching manifestation with an open heart and a willingness to grow will lead to positive shifts in your mindset, your actions, and the realization of your desires.
Be sure to check out the links in this post. They lead to some valuable resources and programs to aid you on your path to manifesting your dream reality.
Manifestation Reading List
Enjoy the reading list and happy manifesting!
Simon is a former renovation contractor turned writer and author. Apart from writing about his experiences with spiritualism, Simon has a passion for reading, podcasts and spending quality time with his family.