Science and Spirit: the neuroscience of manifestation

The coursework at the Academy is rooted in a scientific approach to metaphysics, so it’s always exciting when scientific studies emerge to explain foundational principles, such as manifestation.

The concept of manifestation has become very mainstream, from countless books to threads on social media, more and more people are reaching for the steering wheel of how to create what they want in their lives.

Here at the Academy, we approach manifestation from a spiritual standpoint, using meditation as the launching point to create our lives in collaboration with our higher selves. Rooted in love and purpose, we use our will to bring in what we want to see in our lives, be it physical goods, relationships, career or the transformation of Self.

And over and over again, we see results!

So what is the science behind this? How does neuroscience approach our ability to manifest?

The Power of Intention

Neuroscientist Julia Ries Wexler describes manifestation as “embedding your intention,” telling your mind what is important to you and what you need to focus on. In response, they have observed that the brain will subconsciously create “task-positive networks,” otherwise known as systems of neurons that help you achieve high-level tasks.

These neuro-networks will work in the background of your mind to search for patterns that relate to your goal. What we call synchronicity is seen by neuroscience as the brain’s pattern recognition for the goal it’s been programmed to achieve.

A simple example would be: you’ve decided you want to manifest a certain colour or make of car. Sure enough, as you focus on that car, you start seeing it everywhere – maybe one even shows up for sale on your street!

Is it synchronicity or profound pattern recognition via a brain that has been programmed by your embedded intention? (or is it both?!…)

Why gratitude matters

The role of meditation and gratitude in creating your reality also has grounding in scientific research. How we physically feel in relation to our goals will influence our ability to realize them.

For example, if you are manifesting from a place of fear or survival, be it paying a late bill, or wanting material goods in your life to fill an inner hole of insecurity, these motivations will create feelings of lack. When your body is feeling lack or concern, you are more likely to stimulate a fight-or-flight response in the brain. This activates the sympathetic nervous system, which limits your brain’s capabilities until the perceived threat is removed. 

A limited brain will not perceive patterns related to your goal, instead, it will perceive more of the lack it is focusing on!

Rather, if you are imbued with love, gratitude and inspiration, this activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which opens up the brain to possibilities. That’s why a deeper purpose to your manifestation is often key to its realization.

Do you want financial wealth so you can stop being afraid of poverty? Or do you want financial wealth so you can enjoy life and share with others? There’s a big difference there on how that will impact your body as you hold it to become reality.

Remember, wherever you go, however you create – you take your body with you! Our physical vessel cannot be ignored in the process, especially our incredible brains.

The Power of the Written Word:

If you want to give your manifestation another boost, studies on the power of goal setting prove that writing down your goals embeds them in a deeper part of the brain, making them more likely to be realized in the external world. It’s proof that our brain is a super engine that we can power with our intention.

So reinforce the reality that you are visualizing in your meditation by writing it down, everyday if you can!

If you are ever faced with doubt that you can manifest your dreams, remember – it’s proven by science! By aligning with the power of your mind, your body AND your spirit, you have the power to claim your dreams as reality.