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Personal Development

Manifesting Demystified – The Science Behind Manifesting, Explained By A Doctor

June 19, 2024

I’m Kim.
I’m an M.D.-turned-entrepreneur and I’m dedicated to helping you build your dream career + lifestyle. Welcome to my blog, where I write (and podcast) about wellness, business + success!
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Have you recently come across the concept of manifestation but feel skeptical? 

I get it… I was, too. 

As a doctor, I was trained to be skeptical of anything without a scientific explanation.

So, when I first heard of manifesting, I thought it was just another passing trend. 

But even so, something about it intrigued me. Despite all my colleagues telling me it was just ‘woo-woo’ nonsense, I felt called to learn more.

So that’s what I did. And I found that, surprisingly, there is a lot of science behind it.

But not only that. I tried it out for myself and experienced tangible, real-world results that I couldn’t ignore!

Most information about manifestation that you find online is heavily based on spirituality. So, to provide a different perspective, I’m explaining how manifestation works scientifically.

Let’s jump straight in…


What is Manifestation?

Manifestation is not mere wishful thinking or magic.

It is not about wishing for something to happen and then it miraculously does.

Instead, it is about setting a clear intention and then aligning your thoughts, beliefs, and actions with that intention. 

Manifesting stems from ancient spiritual teachings and philosophical traditions. But my research has revealed that the concept also has a solid psychological and scientific basis, providing a firm foundation for its practice.

The Science Behind Manifesting

Here are four key psychological and neurological principles of how manifesting works…

1. Reticular Activating System (RAS)

The reticular activating system (RAS) is a network of neurons in the brainstem that act as a gatekeeper for sensory information.

It filters the multitude of stimuli we receive daily, determining which ones are significant enough to be brought to our conscious attention.

The RAS is the reason why we are able to focus solely on one conversation when multiple conversations are happening simultaneously around us. 

It’s also the reason why, straight after you’ve bought a new car, you start seeing that exact same car model and color EVERYWHERE.

But what does the RAS have to do with manifesting?

When you set a specific goal or intention, your reticular activating system (RAS) becomes attuned to notice opportunities and resources related to that goal.

For instance, if you’re looking for a new job, you might suddenly start seeing job postings or networking opportunities you previously overlooked. 

This is because your reticular activating system (RAS) is now tuned to notice these opportunities, which were always there but you were not consciously aware of them.

2. The Power of Belief

This psychological principle is about understanding that your beliefs influence your actions

The best way to explain this is with an illustration…

Consider two friends, Anna and Ben. They both dream of becoming successful writers but have very different beliefs.

Anna doubts her skills and doesn’t see the value of networking, so she procrastinates and passively waits for a big break. 

Ben, however, adopts a positive mindset, believes in his skills, writes consistently, attends workshops, and networks diligently. 

The outcome is clear: Anna’s negativity holds her back, while Ben’s proactive approach opens up opportunities, making him more likely to become a published author.

3. Neuroplasticity

Neuroplasticity, a relatively new discovery, is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections.

Until the latter half of the 20th century, it was believed that once we reach adulthood, the function and quantity of the neurons in our brains become fixed.

In other words, the brain could not change its function or structure.

However, pioneering research in the 1960s discovered that this isn’t true, and instead, the brain changes throughout life by growing new neural connections.

This remarkable ability of neuroplasticity allows the brain to adapt to new experiences, learn new information, and recover from injuries. 

However, it also allows you to develop new habits and change your beliefs, which is how it links to manifestation.

Let me explain further…

Firstly, when we practice manifestation, we use positive outcomes and cultivate specific beliefs and attitudes. This process strengthens the neural pathways associated with those positive thoughts and outcomes.

Secondly, manifesting involves not just positive thinking but taking aligned actions. 

Each time we take proactive steps toward our goal, we rewire and reinforce the neural pathways that support these actions. 

The result? 

These habits and behaviors become a natural part of our lives, moving us closer to our dreams and desires.

4. Quantum Physics

While quantum physics is a complex topic, at a fundamental level, it suggests that everything in the universe is composed of energy.

This means that we are made up of energy and vibrate at a particular frequency.

The energy of our thoughts and emotions determines our frequencies, which in turn influence what happens in our reality. 

So, in manifestation, the idea is that our intentions can influence the quantum field.

Final Thoughts on Manifestation

Has this article left you intrigued and inspired by the concept of manifestation?

If so, you’re in for a treat with this week’s YouTube video, where I delve deeper into the subject.

By giving in-depth explanations of the psychology and science of manifestation, I address all your doubts and questions. 

I also share my personal experiences so you can harness the power of manifesting yourself, should you choose to.

Here’s where you can watch:

What are your thoughts on manifestation? Have you ever tried it yourself? If so, what was your experience like? 

I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below! 



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