Law Of Attraction: Visualizing, Manifesting, And The Subconscious Mind

The law of attraction is an ancient principle originating in Eastern spiritual practices and philosophy that continues to inspire people today. Buddha is said to have stated, “What you have become is what you have thought”, a reflection of the power of the human mind to manifest action and consequences.

Accordingly, people have been interested in the idea of working with the subconscious mind to manifest positive outcomes in their lives for many years. This process of self-awareness and positive thinking may take form through creative visualization techniques, building a vision board, or working with the law of attraction. Below, we’ll discuss each of these topics and how they can be used to improve mental and physical health. 

What is the law of attraction?

The law of attraction, put simply, is the idea that positive thinking can yield positive events in life. This law is similar to the scientific concept of “like attracts like” – in other words, people who think positively will have good things happen to them, while people who think negatively may experience more difficulties. The law of attraction may have gained popularity in recent years due to the popular 2008 self-help book “The Secret” by Rhonda Byrne, which suggests that we all have the power to use the law of attraction to manifest what we want in life.

Keep in mind that the law of attraction is a theory – not a proven science. However, the concepts behind the law of attraction, such as the benefits of positive thinking, do appear to be scientifically backed. Studies show that people who have more positive dispositions tend to experience less depression and anxiety and possibly a reduced risk of certain health conditions. 

What is visualization?

Visualization is a type of thinking exercise in which a person may sit comfortably in a quiet space and create a mental picture or scenario that can help them in some way in their daily life. For example, athletes will utilize visualization exercises to practice a complicated move or play in their head, helping to increase their confidence and success while playing sports. Someone experiencing anxiety may harness their visualization skills to envision a safe, comforting space in their mind, imagining themselves in that safe space, and feel their anxiety begin to melt away.

You can also use visualization to optimize creativity and positivity in your life.

What is manifestation?

Over the past several years, more and more people have become interested in manifestation, the process of turning desires or ideas into reality. Books like “The Secret” and “The Law of Attraction” suggest that our own minds and thinking patterns have the power to create real changes in our lives, while others suggest that this is pseudoscience. 

While manifestation may not be a proven science, there is science behind the idea of positive thinking yielding positive results. One study from Johns Hopkins found that people who had a positive outlook as well as a family history of heart disease were one-third less likely to have cardiovascular problems or a heart attack when compared to those with a more negative outlook.

Whether you are new to the idea of manifestation or have mastered the practice, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Smile and laugh more

You may find that smiling more and finding reasons to laugh may improve your mood. Studies show that smiles and laughter can reduce blood pressure and heart rate in stressful situations. Smiling and laughing more can also improve your mood. Both actions promote the release of chemicals (dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins) and neuropeptides to the brain that lower stress levels and lift your mood. Smiling can be useful when it comes to manifesting because it places you in a positive space to think about your future and your goals. 

Visualize the details clearly

Consider taking the time to clearly imagine exactly what you want to manifest. Many of us want to manifest our dream life – but what exactly does this dream life look like? If you do not have a clear, detailed vision of what you want, it may interfere with your ability to achieve your dreams. When you manifest, consider utilizing a visualization process that involves all the senses, picturing your dream life (or another goal) in rich detail. Visualize the unique smells, textures, and tastes within the mental picture that represents the manifestation of your goal or dream. You may find that the precise and detailed mental image helps you discover the path to achievement. 

Journal to manifest

Journaling can be an effective tool for defining what goal, action, or outcome you are trying to achieve. Visualization is a practice, and you may find that your mental image of your goal feels fuzzy or out of reach. Journaling about your ideal future can be a useful way to clarify what you truly want to manifest. Writing out your dreams and future aspirations is also helpful, as sometimes putting words on paper can inspire you to put things into motion. 

Working with the subconscious mind

Visualizing, manifesting, utilizing the law of attraction, and practicing positive affirmations are all ways to use the subconscious mind to make beneficial changes in day-to-day life. When we consciously want something – for example, to stick to a daily workout regimen – but find that we can’t seem to meet our goals, it is possible that the subconscious mind is resisting in some way. While more research is needed to fully understand the subconscious mind, many people find that certain lifestyle interventions can help them reach their goals. 

Vision boards 

Vision boards could be considered visual manifestations of your ideal future. To make a vision board, you need a notebook, whiteboard, journal, computer, or any material you want to use that can inspire you to finish the project. Use texts, images, quotes, or drawings that represent a physical representation of the future you want to build. You can make a vision board exemplifying your dream job, dream home, or your dream life overall, including photos and text related to these areas. Once completed, your vision board may act as a reminder of where you are heading. Seeing the vision board on a regular basis can motivate you to stay positive and reach your goals.

Positive affirmations

If you find yourself stuck in a rut, feeling bad about yourself, or unable to reach a specific goal, it is possible that your confidence or self-esteem could use some bolstering. Using positive affirmations is one way to do this. Affirming yourself is simple, free, and straightforward; it can be as easy as saying or thinking, “I am worthy of good things,” or “I deserve to be happy.” You can tailor your affirmations to fit your own needs and values, and over time, you will likely notice yourself feeling more capable and confident. As a bonus, research shows that positive affirmations can reduce stress and build self-confidence. 

Creative visualization 

Creative visualization is a practice that involves harnessing the imagination to create a vivid picture of your ideal future or the desired outcome of a specific situation. This affirming practice may also be an effective way to achieve calm by visualizing a peaceful and relaxing environment. Visualization works by allowing the mind to focus on a positive or comforting mental scene, which may bring feelings of calmness and happiness to those doing the visualization exercise. You can utilize any of your favorite visualization techniques to create a calmer mental state and improve your mood. 

Therapy for more positive thinking

Visualization, manifestation, and affirmations can be useful tools for improving mood and outlook, but there are some instances where therapy may be more helpful. People who have mental health conditions, for example, may find focused attention in therapy to be helpful in understanding and coping with their condition. Additionally, therapy can be a useful addition to lifestyle interventions like manifesting and visualizing.

If you are interested in therapy, you may wonder what type of therapy is right for you. There are several types, including individual in-person therapy, group therapy, and online therapy. Online therapy can be a particularly convenient option for busy individuals since it requires no waiting rooms or commutes. Additionally, online therapy can be equally as effective as in-office therapy for treating mental health conditions like depression and anxiety.