{"id":1701781,"date":"2025-12-31T13:45:00","date_gmt":"2025-12-31T10:45:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1701781"},"modified":"2025-12-31T13:45:00","modified_gmt":"2025-12-31T10:45:00","slug":"your-science-backed-guide-to-manifesting-your-best-year-and-life-yet","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1701781","title":{"rendered":"Your Science-Backed Guide to Manifesting Your Best Year (and Life) Yet"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><main id=\"main_1-0\" class=\"comp main layout-body--continuous-scroll mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\"><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article--sc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article--sc beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--three-column sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">Your Science-Backed Guide to Manifesting Your Best Year (and Life) Yet<\/h1>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Aiden Arata is a freelance writer and co-host of the So Tired Lately podcast.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Aiden Arata<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top mntl-author-tooltip__top--no-image\">\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nAiden Arata\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--x\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nAiden Arata is a freelance writer and co-host of the So Tired Lately podcast.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on December 31, 2025 08:45AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-left-rail\">\n<div id=\"beauty-sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-sticky-toc mntl-block js-sticky-container sticky-toc__wrapper\">\n<div id=\"sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc mntl-universal-sticky-toc mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block sticky-toc-widget\" data-desktop-bp=\"70em\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"true\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading mntl-block js-toc-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle__btn_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle__btn mntl-text-block js-mntl-toc-toggle text-label-300\" data-click-tracked=\"true\" data-collapsed-text=\"View All\" data-expanded-text=\"View Less\">View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__mobile-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__mobile-toggle mntl-block js-sticky-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-toc__list_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list mntl-toc__list-heading expert-content text-utility-300\">\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">What Is Manifestation?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">A New Approach<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Clarity in Intentions<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Value Tagging<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Reprogramming Your Brain<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Action Boards<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">The Final Takeaway<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" alt=\"Two hands holding a crystal ball, wearing blue outfit\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"Two hands holding a crystal ball, wearing blue outfit\" title=\"dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Shauna Summers \/ Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Looking to elevate your life for the upcoming year (or any time you&#8217;re feeling down)? You&#8217;ve probably heard people talking about manifestation, and despite the fact that this practice is grounded in your mindset and spirituality, it has far more scientific backing than you might think. To help you finally get a full understanding, we tapped a neuroscientist for her insights. <strong>Read on for our full guide to manifestation<\/strong>, from what the term actually means to how to best use the practice to attract your goals and desires.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>Tara Swart, MD, is a neuroscientist and the author of <em>The Source <\/em>and <em>The Signs<\/em>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Manifestation? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201c<strong>Manifestation is bringing into reality the outcomes you desire<\/strong>,\u201d says neuroscientist and author Tara Swart, MD. \u201cIt happens when you combine strong intentions (feelings and beliefs) with sufficient action to make a desired outcome real.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Far from magical thinking, Swart argues the law of attraction is scientifically sound and totally accessible: \u201cThe law of attraction is strongly connected to us aligning all of our brain power,\u201d she says. \u201cIt describes the way that we can create the relationships, situations and material things that come into our lives as a direct consequence of the way we think and our subconscious beliefs. We \u2018manifest\u2019 them by focusing on them, visualizing them becoming true, and directing our energy towards them through our actions.\u201d Translation? It\u2019s about clarity of intention, and mindfully working towards your intentions, rather than simply waiting for the universe to perform a random act of kindness.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> This reframing of manifestation not only sounds more realistic than the vague, spell-casting preconception I had in my head, but also feels more empowering. I tend to take credit for my missteps, while my successes are random flukes. Knowing that I can be responsible for \u201cluck\u201d boosts my self-worth and gives me a sense of control that I\u2019ve found lacking in my day-to-day life. \u201cManifesting is merely another way of saying we \u2018make something happen,\u2019\u201d Swart adds. \u201cInstead of loading this word with spontaneous happenings, we should consider it as a directed, purposeful connection between our intention and the actions that we take.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Taking a New Approach <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I\u2019ll be the first to admit that I have an inconsistent relationship with the intersection of spirituality and wellness. I received my first tarot deck at age nine, know all my friends\u2019 birth charts, and make a yearly pilgrimage to Tucson\u2019s National Gem and Mineral Show to stock up on crystals. At the same time, I\u2019m critical of neo-spirituality\u2019s history of whitewashing, cultural appropriation, and attributing systemic injustice to personal failings or lack of faith. Plus, at the end of the day, I trust science. I aim for a balanced spiritual practice, in which I\u2019m open to the powers of intuition and divine mystery without sacrificing critical thinking. So when I heard about Swart&#8217;s work, I was immediately intrigued.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart focuses on how the brain processes and prioritizes information, and how we can train our brains to attract what we want, from a thoroughly scientific perspective. It&#8217;s manifestation without snake oil, spiritual bypassing, or culturally appropriative neo-spirituality. It sounds too good to be true, but thanks to her action-focused approach, it just may be possible.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Finding Clarity in Your Intentions <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart says that one reason we struggle with intention clarity is information overload. \u201cOne of the topics I discuss in my book, <em>The Source<\/em>, is manifestation and the two physiological processes \u2018selective attention\u2019 and \u2018value tagging\u2019 that go on in the brain simultaneously,\u201d she tells us. \u201cUnderstanding and accepting that we are all blocking huge amounts of information and choosing to focus on other information is crucial to the power of manifestation: You can\u2019t manifest what you don\u2019t consciously notice. Thus, we need to actively direct our brain to move away from prioritizing these unconscious biases and be more flexible and courageous about pushing ourselves towards our goals and choices.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For example, Swart suggests writing down the qualities that you want in a partner, then revisiting the list frequently. That way, instead of gravitating towards romantic matches who fall into old, unfulfilling relationship models, you&#8217;ll be more likely to filter out matches that don\u2019t fit your needs, and make time for those that do.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Value Tagging? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201c<strong>[Value tagging] is the importance your brain assigns to every piece of information and [how your brain orders information] based on importance<\/strong>,\u201d Swart says. \u201cThere are logical and emotional elements.\u201d In short, the choices we make can rely on logic (stocking up on items at the grocery store to save money) or emotion (shouldering a hefty delivery fee because I\u2019ve had a crummy day).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As such, Swart suggests true manifestation requires a mix of logic and intuition, and the ability to recognize when our choices are motivated by feelings that actually work <em>against<\/em> our values. \u201cPeople tend to struggle with emotional tagging because this has to do with our levels of \u2018social safety,\u2019&#8221; she notes.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Our brains can sometimes trick us into thinking we can&#8217;t have something that actually <em>is<\/em> possible, and it&#8217;s important to recognize and subvert this pattern when it happens. \u201cFor example, if someone has just been through a breakup or has been single for a long time and their biological clock has been ticking, their value tagging system may paradoxically become biased against looking for a companion or having children,\u201d Swart says. \u201cThey may think they\u2019ve lived alone for too long to share their space, or their career and social life supersedes a relationship and thus won\u2019t be alert to the opportunity. Simply put, when you allow your brain to be conscious of and focus on what you want in life, the raised awareness will work in your favor to automatically bring opportunities.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Mindfulness Reprograms Your Brain <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Retraining your neural pathways can be daunting even in the best of times. Spiritual and emotional growth must contend with needs like safety, security, and reconciling collective trauma. It\u2019s easy to feel overwhelmed and unable to find time for a dedicated spiritual practice, but Swart points out that we don\u2019t need to spend extensive time\u2014or <em>any<\/em> money\u2014on neuroplasticity. In fact, the method she recommends is tried and true: All you need is a few minutes and a brain.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As Swart indicates, research has shown through brain scans that people who use mindfulness meditation experience significant neuroplastic changes. \u201cCommit to devoting a few minutes a day to meditate,\u201d she says. \u201cThis can give you a new clarity of perspective on what and who are your real priorities in life, supporting your \u2018higher level\u2019 brain regulation and improving your resilience, making you more considered and balanced in your approach.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Create an Action Board <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> In addition to mindfulness, Swart recommends a craft to call in your best life: \u201cAn action board is a great way to start [manifesting],\u201d she says. \u201cThis is a collage that represents everything you aspire to.<strong>\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Note the emphasis on <em>action<\/em>\u2014this isn\u2019t your summer camp vision board or Pinterest deep dive. <strong>\u201c<\/strong>When you create your action board, you are identifying your innermost dreams and representing them pictorially,&#8221; Swart says. &#8220;More than this, you will also use the board to take action to make the dreams a reality. While it may feel a little strange, compared to a traditional list, creating an action board will have more impact on your brain and future behavior.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Manifestation is much more accessible and science-backed than it sounds: It&#8217;s simply a way of intentionally focusing your mindset and actions on the things you desire. When you&#8217;re able to recognize your brain&#8217;s inherent biases as well as the qualities that align with whatever you want to manifest, you can <em>literally<\/em> reprogram your neural pathways. While actually manifesting something does require action, that much-hyped mindset aspect is important and effective: When you get specific about your goals and make the effort to visualize what you want, it&#8217;s easier to recognize the subconscious manifestation you&#8217;re already doing and do any necessary reframing.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart&#8217;s work suggests that because our brains are visual creatures, imagery can help us identify opportunities on a subconscious level, so we\u2019re making decisions that serve our intentions before we realize we\u2019re doing it. Ultimately, strengthening our neural networks to support the kind of life we want to live may not only be realistic\u2014it sounds downright fun.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources mntl-article-sources mntl-expandable-block u-article-styles\" data-scroll-offset=\"70\">\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__wrapper mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"true\"><span id=\"mntl-article-sources__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__heading mntl-text-block\">Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"citation-sources__text_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources__text mntl-text-block\">Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__citation-sources mntl-citation-sources mntl-sources\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ol class=\"mntl-sources__content\">\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-1\">\n<p>Lardone A, Liparoti M, Sorrentino P, et al. Mindfulness meditation is related to long-lasting changes in hippocampal functional topology during resting state: a magnetoencephalography study.\u00a0<em>Neural Plast<\/em>. 2018;2018:5340717. doi:10.1155\/2018\/5340717<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Health &amp; Wellness<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Mental Health &amp; Mood<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div id=\"recirc_1-0\" class=\"comp recirc mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<h2 id=\"recirc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp recirc__heading mntl-text-block\">Related Stories<\/h2>\n<ul id=\"card-list-1_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list-1 card-list mntl-block l-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"card-list__item_1-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"Two individuals interacting one holding a bouquet\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr_di_effortisin_recirc-c45906087b5145399b711d2b2d261d00-5.webp\" 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src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/addison-rae-2-ed766a6522194b618da4dedf4ebf3d25-13.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"A person with a thoughtful expression hair tied back posing indoors\" title=\"addison-rae-2-ed766a6522194b618da4dedf4ebf3d25-13\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">Lowlights or Highlights? Hairstylists Explain the Key Differences<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"card-list__item_16-0\" class=\"comp card-list__item mntl-block \">\n<div class=\"loc card__top\">\n<div class=\"card__media mntl-image card__media universal-image__container\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" alt=\"before and after photos of a woman wearing one of the best sunscreens for rosacea\" class=\"lazyload card__img universal-image__image\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-sunscreens-for-rosacea-tout-recirc-21641bb9b256434690388b90c9a7e5e4-5.webp\" title=\"byr-best-sunscreens-for-rosacea-tout-recirc-21641bb9b256434690388b90c9a7e5e4-5\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/byr-best-sunscreens-for-rosacea-tout-recirc-21641bb9b256434690388b90c9a7e5e4-5.webp\" width=\"300\" height=\"240\" class=\"img--noscript card__img universal-image__image\" alt=\"before and after photos of a woman wearing one of the best sunscreens for rosacea\" title=\"byr-best-sunscreens-for-rosacea-tout-recirc-21641bb9b256434690388b90c9a7e5e4-5\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"card__content \"><span class=\"card__title\"><span class=\"card__title-text \">The 11 Best Sunscreens for Rosacea, According to Skin Experts<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/main><\/p>\n<article id=\"beauty-article--sc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-article--sc beauty-article mntl-article mntl-article--three-column sc-ad-container\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"loc article-header\">\n<div id=\"article-header_1-0\" class=\"comp article-header mntl-block article-top\">\n<h1 id=\"article-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp article-heading mntl-text-block\">Your Science-Backed Guide to Manifesting Your Best Year (and Life) Yet<\/h1>\n<div id=\"article-meta_1-0\" class=\"comp article-meta mntl-article-meta mntl-block\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"bylines_1-0\" class=\"comp bylines beauty-bylines mntl-bylines\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__group_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__group mntl-block mntl-bylines__group--author\">\n<div id=\"mntl-bylines__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-bylines__item mntl-attribution__item mntl-attribution__item--has-date\"><span class=\"mntl-attribution__item-descriptor\">By<\/span><\/p>\n<div data-tooltip=\"Aiden Arata is a freelance writer and co-host of the So Tired Lately podcast.\" data-inline-tooltip=\"true\"> Aiden Arata<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip mntl-tooltip mntl-group\">\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__top mntl-author-tooltip__top--no-image\">\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__name_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__name mntl-attribution__item \">\nAiden Arata\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-author-tooltip__social-nav beauty-social-nav mntl-social-nav social-nav--tooltip\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ul class=\"social-nav__list\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--instagram\">\n<li class=\"social-nav__item social-nav__item--x\"><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bio\">\nAiden Arata is a freelance writer and co-host of the So Tired Lately podcast.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-author-tooltip__bottom\">\nByrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mntl-attribution__item-date\">Published on December 31, 2025 08:45AM<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-left-rail\">\n<div id=\"beauty-sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-sticky-toc mntl-block js-sticky-container sticky-toc__wrapper\">\n<div id=\"sticky-toc_1-0\" class=\"comp sticky-toc mntl-universal-sticky-toc mntl-sticky-toc mntl-block sticky-toc-widget\" data-desktop-bp=\"70em\">\n<div id=\"toc-wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp toc-wrapper mntl-toc mntl-block\" data-chop-mobile=\"true\" data-offset=\"60\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__inner_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__inner mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading mntl-block js-toc-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc-toggle__btn_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc-toggle__btn mntl-text-block js-mntl-toc-toggle text-label-300\" data-click-tracked=\"true\" data-collapsed-text=\"View All\" data-expanded-text=\"View Less\">View All<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__mobile-toggle_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__mobile-toggle mntl-block js-sticky-toggle\"><span id=\"mntl-toc__heading-text_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__heading-text mntl-text-block\">In This Article<\/span><\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-toc__list_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list mntl-toc__list-heading expert-content text-utility-300\">\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">What Is Manifestation?<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">A New Approach<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Clarity in Intentions<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Value Tagging<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Reprogramming Your Brain<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_6-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Action Boards<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-toc__list-item_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-toc__list-item-heading_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-toc__list-item-heading mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">The Final Takeaway<\/span><\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" alt=\"Two hands holding a crystal ball, wearing blue outfit\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"Two hands holding a crystal ball, wearing blue outfit\" title=\"dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Shauna Summers \/ Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Looking to elevate your life for the upcoming year (or any time you&#8217;re feeling down)? You&#8217;ve probably heard people talking about manifestation, and despite the fact that this practice is grounded in your mindset and spirituality, it has far more scientific backing than you might think. To help you finally get a full understanding, we tapped a neuroscientist for her insights. <strong>Read on for our full guide to manifestation<\/strong>, from what the term actually means to how to best use the practice to attract your goals and desires.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>Tara Swart, MD, is a neuroscientist and the author of <em>The Source <\/em>and <em>The Signs<\/em>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Manifestation? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201c<strong>Manifestation is bringing into reality the outcomes you desire<\/strong>,\u201d says neuroscientist and author Tara Swart, MD. \u201cIt happens when you combine strong intentions (feelings and beliefs) with sufficient action to make a desired outcome real.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Far from magical thinking, Swart argues the law of attraction is scientifically sound and totally accessible: \u201cThe law of attraction is strongly connected to us aligning all of our brain power,\u201d she says. \u201cIt describes the way that we can create the relationships, situations and material things that come into our lives as a direct consequence of the way we think and our subconscious beliefs. We \u2018manifest\u2019 them by focusing on them, visualizing them becoming true, and directing our energy towards them through our actions.\u201d Translation? It\u2019s about clarity of intention, and mindfully working towards your intentions, rather than simply waiting for the universe to perform a random act of kindness.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> This reframing of manifestation not only sounds more realistic than the vague, spell-casting preconception I had in my head, but also feels more empowering. I tend to take credit for my missteps, while my successes are random flukes. Knowing that I can be responsible for \u201cluck\u201d boosts my self-worth and gives me a sense of control that I\u2019ve found lacking in my day-to-day life. \u201cManifesting is merely another way of saying we \u2018make something happen,\u2019\u201d Swart adds. \u201cInstead of loading this word with spontaneous happenings, we should consider it as a directed, purposeful connection between our intention and the actions that we take.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Taking a New Approach <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I\u2019ll be the first to admit that I have an inconsistent relationship with the intersection of spirituality and wellness. I received my first tarot deck at age nine, know all my friends\u2019 birth charts, and make a yearly pilgrimage to Tucson\u2019s National Gem and Mineral Show to stock up on crystals. At the same time, I\u2019m critical of neo-spirituality\u2019s history of whitewashing, cultural appropriation, and attributing systemic injustice to personal failings or lack of faith. Plus, at the end of the day, I trust science. I aim for a balanced spiritual practice, in which I\u2019m open to the powers of intuition and divine mystery without sacrificing critical thinking. So when I heard about Swart&#8217;s work, I was immediately intrigued.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart focuses on how the brain processes and prioritizes information, and how we can train our brains to attract what we want, from a thoroughly scientific perspective. It&#8217;s manifestation without snake oil, spiritual bypassing, or culturally appropriative neo-spirituality. It sounds too good to be true, but thanks to her action-focused approach, it just may be possible.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Finding Clarity in Your Intentions <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart says that one reason we struggle with intention clarity is information overload. \u201cOne of the topics I discuss in my book, <em>The Source<\/em>, is manifestation and the two physiological processes \u2018selective attention\u2019 and \u2018value tagging\u2019 that go on in the brain simultaneously,\u201d she tells us. \u201cUnderstanding and accepting that we are all blocking huge amounts of information and choosing to focus on other information is crucial to the power of manifestation: You can\u2019t manifest what you don\u2019t consciously notice. Thus, we need to actively direct our brain to move away from prioritizing these unconscious biases and be more flexible and courageous about pushing ourselves towards our goals and choices.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For example, Swart suggests writing down the qualities that you want in a partner, then revisiting the list frequently. That way, instead of gravitating towards romantic matches who fall into old, unfulfilling relationship models, you&#8217;ll be more likely to filter out matches that don\u2019t fit your needs, and make time for those that do.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Value Tagging? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201c<strong>[Value tagging] is the importance your brain assigns to every piece of information and [how your brain orders information] based on importance<\/strong>,\u201d Swart says. \u201cThere are logical and emotional elements.\u201d In short, the choices we make can rely on logic (stocking up on items at the grocery store to save money) or emotion (shouldering a hefty delivery fee because I\u2019ve had a crummy day).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As such, Swart suggests true manifestation requires a mix of logic and intuition, and the ability to recognize when our choices are motivated by feelings that actually work <em>against<\/em> our values. \u201cPeople tend to struggle with emotional tagging because this has to do with our levels of \u2018social safety,\u2019&#8221; she notes.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Our brains can sometimes trick us into thinking we can&#8217;t have something that actually <em>is<\/em> possible, and it&#8217;s important to recognize and subvert this pattern when it happens. \u201cFor example, if someone has just been through a breakup or has been single for a long time and their biological clock has been ticking, their value tagging system may paradoxically become biased against looking for a companion or having children,\u201d Swart says. \u201cThey may think they\u2019ve lived alone for too long to share their space, or their career and social life supersedes a relationship and thus won\u2019t be alert to the opportunity. Simply put, when you allow your brain to be conscious of and focus on what you want in life, the raised awareness will work in your favor to automatically bring opportunities.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Mindfulness Reprograms Your Brain <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Retraining your neural pathways can be daunting even in the best of times. Spiritual and emotional growth must contend with needs like safety, security, and reconciling collective trauma. It\u2019s easy to feel overwhelmed and unable to find time for a dedicated spiritual practice, but Swart points out that we don\u2019t need to spend extensive time\u2014or <em>any<\/em> money\u2014on neuroplasticity. In fact, the method she recommends is tried and true: All you need is a few minutes and a brain.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As Swart indicates, research has shown through brain scans that people who use mindfulness meditation experience significant neuroplastic changes. \u201cCommit to devoting a few minutes a day to meditate,\u201d she says. \u201cThis can give you a new clarity of perspective on what and who are your real priorities in life, supporting your \u2018higher level\u2019 brain regulation and improving your resilience, making you more considered and balanced in your approach.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Create an Action Board <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> In addition to mindfulness, Swart recommends a craft to call in your best life: \u201cAn action board is a great way to start [manifesting],\u201d she says. \u201cThis is a collage that represents everything you aspire to.<strong>\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Note the emphasis on <em>action<\/em>\u2014this isn\u2019t your summer camp vision board or Pinterest deep dive. <strong>\u201c<\/strong>When you create your action board, you are identifying your innermost dreams and representing them pictorially,&#8221; Swart says. &#8220;More than this, you will also use the board to take action to make the dreams a reality. While it may feel a little strange, compared to a traditional list, creating an action board will have more impact on your brain and future behavior.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Manifestation is much more accessible and science-backed than it sounds: It&#8217;s simply a way of intentionally focusing your mindset and actions on the things you desire. When you&#8217;re able to recognize your brain&#8217;s inherent biases as well as the qualities that align with whatever you want to manifest, you can <em>literally<\/em> reprogram your neural pathways. While actually manifesting something does require action, that much-hyped mindset aspect is important and effective: When you get specific about your goals and make the effort to visualize what you want, it&#8217;s easier to recognize the subconscious manifestation you&#8217;re already doing and do any necessary reframing.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart&#8217;s work suggests that because our brains are visual creatures, imagery can help us identify opportunities on a subconscious level, so we\u2019re making decisions that serve our intentions before we realize we\u2019re doing it. Ultimately, strengthening our neural networks to support the kind of life we want to live may not only be realistic\u2014it sounds downright fun.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources mntl-article-sources mntl-expandable-block u-article-styles\" data-scroll-offset=\"70\">\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__wrapper mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"true\"><span id=\"mntl-article-sources__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__heading mntl-text-block\">Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"citation-sources__text_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources__text mntl-text-block\">Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__citation-sources mntl-citation-sources mntl-sources\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ol class=\"mntl-sources__content\">\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-1\">\n<p>Lardone A, Liparoti M, Sorrentino P, et al. Mindfulness meditation is related to long-lasting changes in hippocampal functional topology during resting state: a magnetoencephalography study.\u00a0<em>Neural Plast<\/em>. 2018;2018:5340717. doi:10.1155\/2018\/5340717<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc article-post-content\">\n<div id=\"beauty-breadcrumbs--chips_1-0\" class=\"comp beauty-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-universal-breadcrumbs--chips mntl-block\">\n<div id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__read-more mntl-text-block text-title-100\">Read more:<\/div>\n<ul id=\"mntl-universal-breadcrumbs_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-breadcrumbs mntl-block text-label-300 breadcrumbs\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Health &amp; Wellness<\/span><\/li>\n<li id=\"mntl-breadcrumbs__item_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-breadcrumbs__item mntl-block\"><span class=\"link__wrapper\">Mental Health &amp; Mood<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"loc article-content\">\n<div id=\"article__broad-video-jw_1-0\" class=\"comp article__broad-video-jw mntl-jwplayer-broad mntl-block is-hidden\" data-pixel-depth=\"100\">\n<div id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title mntl-block\"><button id=\"mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-jwplayer-broad__title-icon--close mntl-block text-label-100\" data-click-tracked=\"false\"><span id=\"mntl-text-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-text-block\">Close<\/span><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-block_2-0\" class=\"comp mntl-block article__body right-rail\">\n<figure id=\"mntl-universal-primary-image_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-universal-primary-image primary-image\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<div class=\"primary-image__media\">\n<div class=\"img-placeholder\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" alt=\"Two hands holding a crystal ball, wearing blue outfit\" class=\" primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" title=\"dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2.webp\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1500\" class=\"loaded primary-img--noscript primary-image__image mntl-primary-image--blurry\" alt=\"Two hands holding a crystal ball, wearing blue outfit\" title=\"dts_stars_shauna_summers_photos_id9877-b6317e0b13fe40199da75c07079edea9-2\"><\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption id=\"primary-image__figcap_1-0\" class=\"comp primary-image__figcap mntl-figure-caption figure-article-caption\"><span class=\"figure-article-caption-owner\"><\/p>\n<p>Shauna Summers \/ Death to Stock<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Looking to elevate your life for the upcoming year (or any time you&#8217;re feeling down)? You&#8217;ve probably heard people talking about manifestation, and despite the fact that this practice is grounded in your mindset and spirituality, it has far more scientific backing than you might think. To help you finally get a full understanding, we tapped a neuroscientist for her insights. <strong>Read on for our full guide to manifestation<\/strong>, from what the term actually means to how to best use the practice to attract your goals and desires.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>Tara Swart, MD, is a neuroscientist and the author of <em>The Source <\/em>and <em>The Signs<\/em>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Manifestation? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201c<strong>Manifestation is bringing into reality the outcomes you desire<\/strong>,\u201d says neuroscientist and author Tara Swart, MD. \u201cIt happens when you combine strong intentions (feelings and beliefs) with sufficient action to make a desired outcome real.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Far from magical thinking, Swart argues the law of attraction is scientifically sound and totally accessible: \u201cThe law of attraction is strongly connected to us aligning all of our brain power,\u201d she says. \u201cIt describes the way that we can create the relationships, situations and material things that come into our lives as a direct consequence of the way we think and our subconscious beliefs. We \u2018manifest\u2019 them by focusing on them, visualizing them becoming true, and directing our energy towards them through our actions.\u201d Translation? It\u2019s about clarity of intention, and mindfully working towards your intentions, rather than simply waiting for the universe to perform a random act of kindness.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> This reframing of manifestation not only sounds more realistic than the vague, spell-casting preconception I had in my head, but also feels more empowering. I tend to take credit for my missteps, while my successes are random flukes. Knowing that I can be responsible for \u201cluck\u201d boosts my self-worth and gives me a sense of control that I\u2019ve found lacking in my day-to-day life. \u201cManifesting is merely another way of saying we \u2018make something happen,\u2019\u201d Swart adds. \u201cInstead of loading this word with spontaneous happenings, we should consider it as a directed, purposeful connection between our intention and the actions that we take.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Taking a New Approach <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I\u2019ll be the first to admit that I have an inconsistent relationship with the intersection of spirituality and wellness. I received my first tarot deck at age nine, know all my friends\u2019 birth charts, and make a yearly pilgrimage to Tucson\u2019s National Gem and Mineral Show to stock up on crystals. At the same time, I\u2019m critical of neo-spirituality\u2019s history of whitewashing, cultural appropriation, and attributing systemic injustice to personal failings or lack of faith. Plus, at the end of the day, I trust science. I aim for a balanced spiritual practice, in which I\u2019m open to the powers of intuition and divine mystery without sacrificing critical thinking. So when I heard about Swart&#8217;s work, I was immediately intrigued.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart focuses on how the brain processes and prioritizes information, and how we can train our brains to attract what we want, from a thoroughly scientific perspective. It&#8217;s manifestation without snake oil, spiritual bypassing, or culturally appropriative neo-spirituality. It sounds too good to be true, but thanks to her action-focused approach, it just may be possible.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Finding Clarity in Your Intentions <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart says that one reason we struggle with intention clarity is information overload. \u201cOne of the topics I discuss in my book, <em>The Source<\/em>, is manifestation and the two physiological processes \u2018selective attention\u2019 and \u2018value tagging\u2019 that go on in the brain simultaneously,\u201d she tells us. \u201cUnderstanding and accepting that we are all blocking huge amounts of information and choosing to focus on other information is crucial to the power of manifestation: You can\u2019t manifest what you don\u2019t consciously notice. Thus, we need to actively direct our brain to move away from prioritizing these unconscious biases and be more flexible and courageous about pushing ourselves towards our goals and choices.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For example, Swart suggests writing down the qualities that you want in a partner, then revisiting the list frequently. That way, instead of gravitating towards romantic matches who fall into old, unfulfilling relationship models, you&#8217;ll be more likely to filter out matches that don\u2019t fit your needs, and make time for those that do.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Value Tagging? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201c<strong>[Value tagging] is the importance your brain assigns to every piece of information and [how your brain orders information] based on importance<\/strong>,\u201d Swart says. \u201cThere are logical and emotional elements.\u201d In short, the choices we make can rely on logic (stocking up on items at the grocery store to save money) or emotion (shouldering a hefty delivery fee because I\u2019ve had a crummy day).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As such, Swart suggests true manifestation requires a mix of logic and intuition, and the ability to recognize when our choices are motivated by feelings that actually work <em>against<\/em> our values. \u201cPeople tend to struggle with emotional tagging because this has to do with our levels of \u2018social safety,\u2019&#8221; she notes.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Our brains can sometimes trick us into thinking we can&#8217;t have something that actually <em>is<\/em> possible, and it&#8217;s important to recognize and subvert this pattern when it happens. \u201cFor example, if someone has just been through a breakup or has been single for a long time and their biological clock has been ticking, their value tagging system may paradoxically become biased against looking for a companion or having children,\u201d Swart says. \u201cThey may think they\u2019ve lived alone for too long to share their space, or their career and social life supersedes a relationship and thus won\u2019t be alert to the opportunity. Simply put, when you allow your brain to be conscious of and focus on what you want in life, the raised awareness will work in your favor to automatically bring opportunities.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Mindfulness Reprograms Your Brain <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Retraining your neural pathways can be daunting even in the best of times. Spiritual and emotional growth must contend with needs like safety, security, and reconciling collective trauma. It\u2019s easy to feel overwhelmed and unable to find time for a dedicated spiritual practice, but Swart points out that we don\u2019t need to spend extensive time\u2014or <em>any<\/em> money\u2014on neuroplasticity. In fact, the method she recommends is tried and true: All you need is a few minutes and a brain.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As Swart indicates, research has shown through brain scans that people who use mindfulness meditation experience significant neuroplastic changes. \u201cCommit to devoting a few minutes a day to meditate,\u201d she says. \u201cThis can give you a new clarity of perspective on what and who are your real priorities in life, supporting your \u2018higher level\u2019 brain regulation and improving your resilience, making you more considered and balanced in your approach.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Create an Action Board <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> In addition to mindfulness, Swart recommends a craft to call in your best life: \u201cAn action board is a great way to start [manifesting],\u201d she says. \u201cThis is a collage that represents everything you aspire to.<strong>\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Note the emphasis on <em>action<\/em>\u2014this isn\u2019t your summer camp vision board or Pinterest deep dive. <strong>\u201c<\/strong>When you create your action board, you are identifying your innermost dreams and representing them pictorially,&#8221; Swart says. &#8220;More than this, you will also use the board to take action to make the dreams a reality. While it may feel a little strange, compared to a traditional list, creating an action board will have more impact on your brain and future behavior.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Manifestation is much more accessible and science-backed than it sounds: It&#8217;s simply a way of intentionally focusing your mindset and actions on the things you desire. When you&#8217;re able to recognize your brain&#8217;s inherent biases as well as the qualities that align with whatever you want to manifest, you can <em>literally<\/em> reprogram your neural pathways. While actually manifesting something does require action, that much-hyped mindset aspect is important and effective: When you get specific about your goals and make the effort to visualize what you want, it&#8217;s easier to recognize the subconscious manifestation you&#8217;re already doing and do any necessary reframing.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart&#8217;s work suggests that because our brains are visual creatures, imagery can help us identify opportunities on a subconscious level, so we\u2019re making decisions that serve our intentions before we realize we\u2019re doing it. Ultimately, strengthening our neural networks to support the kind of life we want to live may not only be realistic\u2014it sounds downright fun.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources mntl-article-sources mntl-expandable-block u-article-styles\" data-scroll-offset=\"70\">\n<div class=\"loc toggle-content\">\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__wrapper_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__wrapper mntl-block\" data-click-tracked=\"true\"><span id=\"mntl-article-sources__heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__heading mntl-text-block\">Article Sources<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"loc expandable-content\">\n<div id=\"citation-sources__text_1-0\" class=\"comp citation-sources__text mntl-text-block\">Byrdie takes every opportunity to use high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial guidelines to learn more about how we keep our content accurate, reliable and trustworthy.<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-article-sources__citation-sources_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-article-sources__citation-sources mntl-citation-sources mntl-sources\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<ol class=\"mntl-sources__content\">\n<li class=\"mntl-sources__source\" id=\"citation-1\">\n<p>Lardone A, Liparoti M, Sorrentino P, et al. Mindfulness meditation is related to long-lasting changes in hippocampal functional topology during resting state: a magnetoencephalography study.\u00a0<em>Neural Plast<\/em>. 2018;2018:5340717. doi:10.1155\/2018\/5340717<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-page_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-page mntl-block\" data-sc-sticky-offset=\"125\" data-sc-ad-label-height=\"16\" data-sc-ad-track-spacing=\"100\" data-sc-min-track-height=\"250\" data-sc-max-track-height=\"600\" data-sc-breakpoint=\"50em\" data-sc-load-immediate=\"5\" data-sc-content-positions=\"[1, 1250, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1, 1]\" data-bind-scroll-on-start=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Looking to elevate your life for the upcoming year (or any time you&#8217;re feeling down)? You&#8217;ve probably heard people talking about manifestation, and despite the fact that this practice is grounded in your mindset and spirituality, it has far more scientific backing than you might think. To help you finally get a full understanding, we tapped a neuroscientist for her insights. <strong>Read on for our full guide to manifestation<\/strong>, from what the term actually means to how to best use the practice to attract your goals and desires.\n<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block_3-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-callout--meetourexpert beauty-sc-block-callout mntl-sc-block-callout mntl-block theme-meetourexpert\" data-tracking-id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout\" data-tracking-container=\"true\">\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-heading_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-heading mntl-text-block\">Meet the Experts<\/p>\n<div id=\"mntl-sc-block-callout-body_1-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block-callout-body mntl-text-block\">\n<p>Tara Swart, MD, is a neuroscientist and the author of <em>The Source <\/em>and <em>The Signs<\/em>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_4-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Manifestation? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_5-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201c<strong>Manifestation is bringing into reality the outcomes you desire<\/strong>,\u201d says neuroscientist and author Tara Swart, MD. \u201cIt happens when you combine strong intentions (feelings and beliefs) with sufficient action to make a desired outcome real.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_7-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Far from magical thinking, Swart argues the law of attraction is scientifically sound and totally accessible: \u201cThe law of attraction is strongly connected to us aligning all of our brain power,\u201d she says. \u201cIt describes the way that we can create the relationships, situations and material things that come into our lives as a direct consequence of the way we think and our subconscious beliefs. We \u2018manifest\u2019 them by focusing on them, visualizing them becoming true, and directing our energy towards them through our actions.\u201d Translation? It\u2019s about clarity of intention, and mindfully working towards your intentions, rather than simply waiting for the universe to perform a random act of kindness.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_9-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> This reframing of manifestation not only sounds more realistic than the vague, spell-casting preconception I had in my head, but also feels more empowering. I tend to take credit for my missteps, while my successes are random flukes. Knowing that I can be responsible for \u201cluck\u201d boosts my self-worth and gives me a sense of control that I\u2019ve found lacking in my day-to-day life. \u201cManifesting is merely another way of saying we \u2018make something happen,\u2019\u201d Swart adds. \u201cInstead of loading this word with spontaneous happenings, we should consider it as a directed, purposeful connection between our intention and the actions that we take.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_11-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Taking a New Approach <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_12-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> I\u2019ll be the first to admit that I have an inconsistent relationship with the intersection of spirituality and wellness. I received my first tarot deck at age nine, know all my friends\u2019 birth charts, and make a yearly pilgrimage to Tucson\u2019s National Gem and Mineral Show to stock up on crystals. At the same time, I\u2019m critical of neo-spirituality\u2019s history of whitewashing, cultural appropriation, and attributing systemic injustice to personal failings or lack of faith. Plus, at the end of the day, I trust science. I aim for a balanced spiritual practice, in which I\u2019m open to the powers of intuition and divine mystery without sacrificing critical thinking. So when I heard about Swart&#8217;s work, I was immediately intrigued.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_14-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart focuses on how the brain processes and prioritizes information, and how we can train our brains to attract what we want, from a thoroughly scientific perspective. It&#8217;s manifestation without snake oil, spiritual bypassing, or culturally appropriative neo-spirituality. It sounds too good to be true, but thanks to her action-focused approach, it just may be possible.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_16-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Finding Clarity in Your Intentions <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_17-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart says that one reason we struggle with intention clarity is information overload. \u201cOne of the topics I discuss in my book, <em>The Source<\/em>, is manifestation and the two physiological processes \u2018selective attention\u2019 and \u2018value tagging\u2019 that go on in the brain simultaneously,\u201d she tells us. \u201cUnderstanding and accepting that we are all blocking huge amounts of information and choosing to focus on other information is crucial to the power of manifestation: You can\u2019t manifest what you don\u2019t consciously notice. Thus, we need to actively direct our brain to move away from prioritizing these unconscious biases and be more flexible and courageous about pushing ourselves towards our goals and choices.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_19-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> For example, Swart suggests writing down the qualities that you want in a partner, then revisiting the list frequently. That way, instead of gravitating towards romantic matches who fall into old, unfulfilling relationship models, you&#8217;ll be more likely to filter out matches that don\u2019t fit your needs, and make time for those that do.\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_21-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> What Is Value Tagging? <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_22-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> \u201c<strong>[Value tagging] is the importance your brain assigns to every piece of information and [how your brain orders information] based on importance<\/strong>,\u201d Swart says. \u201cThere are logical and emotional elements.\u201d In short, the choices we make can rely on logic (stocking up on items at the grocery store to save money) or emotion (shouldering a hefty delivery fee because I\u2019ve had a crummy day).\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_24-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As such, Swart suggests true manifestation requires a mix of logic and intuition, and the ability to recognize when our choices are motivated by feelings that actually work <em>against<\/em> our values. \u201cPeople tend to struggle with emotional tagging because this has to do with our levels of \u2018social safety,\u2019&#8221; she notes.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_26-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Our brains can sometimes trick us into thinking we can&#8217;t have something that actually <em>is<\/em> possible, and it&#8217;s important to recognize and subvert this pattern when it happens. \u201cFor example, if someone has just been through a breakup or has been single for a long time and their biological clock has been ticking, their value tagging system may paradoxically become biased against looking for a companion or having children,\u201d Swart says. \u201cThey may think they\u2019ve lived alone for too long to share their space, or their career and social life supersedes a relationship and thus won\u2019t be alert to the opportunity. Simply put, when you allow your brain to be conscious of and focus on what you want in life, the raised awareness will work in your favor to automatically bring opportunities.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_28-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Why Mindfulness Reprograms Your Brain <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_29-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Retraining your neural pathways can be daunting even in the best of times. Spiritual and emotional growth must contend with needs like safety, security, and reconciling collective trauma. It\u2019s easy to feel overwhelmed and unable to find time for a dedicated spiritual practice, but Swart points out that we don\u2019t need to spend extensive time\u2014or <em>any<\/em> money\u2014on neuroplasticity. In fact, the method she recommends is tried and true: All you need is a few minutes and a brain.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_31-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> As Swart indicates, research has shown through brain scans that people who use mindfulness meditation experience significant neuroplastic changes. \u201cCommit to devoting a few minutes a day to meditate,\u201d she says. \u201cThis can give you a new clarity of perspective on what and who are your real priorities in life, supporting your \u2018higher level\u2019 brain regulation and improving your resilience, making you more considered and balanced in your approach.\u201d\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_33-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> Create an Action Board <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_34-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> In addition to mindfulness, Swart recommends a craft to call in your best life: \u201cAn action board is a great way to start [manifesting],\u201d she says. \u201cThis is a collage that represents everything you aspire to.<strong>\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_36-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Note the emphasis on <em>action<\/em>\u2014this isn\u2019t your summer camp vision board or Pinterest deep dive. <strong>\u201c<\/strong>When you create your action board, you are identifying your innermost dreams and representing them pictorially,&#8221; Swart says. &#8220;More than this, you will also use the board to take action to make the dreams a reality. While it may feel a little strange, compared to a traditional list, creating an action board will have more impact on your brain and future behavior.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"mntl-sc-block_38-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-heading mntl-sc-block-heading\"><span class=\"mntl-sc-block-heading__text text-title-300\"> The Final Takeaway <\/span><\/h2>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_39-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Manifestation is much more accessible and science-backed than it sounds: It&#8217;s simply a way of intentionally focusing your mindset and actions on the things you desire. When you&#8217;re able to recognize your brain&#8217;s inherent biases as well as the qualities that align with whatever you want to manifest, you can <em>literally<\/em> reprogram your neural pathways. While actually manifesting something does require action, that much-hyped mindset aspect is important and effective: When you get specific about your goals and make the effort to visualize what you want, it&#8217;s easier to recognize the subconscious manifestation you&#8217;re already doing and do any necessary reframing.\n<\/p>\n<p id=\"mntl-sc-block_41-0\" class=\"comp mntl-sc-block beauty-sc-block-html mntl-sc-block-html\"> Swart&#8217;s work suggests that because our brains are visual creatures, imagery can help us identify opportunities on a subconscious level, so we\u2019re making decisions that serve our intentions before we realize we\u2019re doing it. Ultimately, strengthening our neural networks to support the kind of life we want to live may not only be realistic\u2014it sounds downright fun.\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p> Source URL: https:\/\/www.byrdie.com\/how-to-manifest-11872805<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Your Science-Backed Guide to Manifesting Your Best Year (and Life) Yet By Aiden Arata Aiden Arata Aiden Arata is a freelance writer and co-host of the So Tired Lately podcast. Byrdie&#8217;s Editorial Guidelines Published on December 31, 2025 08:45AM In This Article View All In This Article What Is Manifestation? A New Approach Clarity in [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":1701783,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[83,226],"class_list":["post-1701781","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics","tag-byrdie-com","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1701781","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1701781"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1701781\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/1701783"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1701781"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1701781"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1701781"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}