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Let's take a look at the practice of manifesting

It will not erase social, economic, and cultural differences

Let's take a look at the practice of manifesting It will not erase social, economic, and cultural differences

It's no secret that the world of astrology, crystals, tarot (and more) has experienced a significant surge in popularity and reach over the past five years. Once relegated to the back pages of women’s magazines, they’ve made front-page news, becoming some of the most successful content both on social media and beyond. Some influencers have specialized in these topics, and as a response to the crisis of our times—but also, undeniably, because it works—the so-called modern or TikTok witches have emerged: young women who, between activism and feminism, show us how to connect with the divine, explain rituals and spells, and introduce us to manifestation. As a direct consequence of this popularization, however, there’s sometimes been a loss of depth, with ancient practices being discussed superficially. This has sparked debates and discussions.

Manifestation: History and Meaning

Let’s start with the basics. Have you ever wondered where (or from whom) the idea originated that manifesting something, releasing it into the universe, making it resonate with the forces that govern and balance reality, could be an effective way to make it truly happen? According to the New York Times, this concept stems from a U.S. religious movement known as New Thought, founded in the 1800s by New England healer Phineas Parkhurst Quimby. He built on a theological Christian foundation to promote the idea that humans could connect with God through thought and, through thought, change reality. Other parallels can be drawn with the Law of Attraction, Buddhism, and the mysticism of Ancient Greece.

@stevenwakabayashi The truth about “manifestations” #advicetiktok #manifestingmethods #advicetok #woketiktok #equityforall #equity Lofi - Domknowz

The Positives and the Negatives

If manifesting a better future, achieving success, wealth, love, friendship, becoming more empathetic and sensitive, or having a fuller, more satisfying life is ultimately a positive thing because - regardless of whether or not we believe in its measurable, tangible effectiveness - it puts us in a mental state to work on ourselves and our relationships, clarifies our desires, and motivates us, there are clear limits. In our private thoughts, we can manifest anything, but when we suggest to less privileged people that esoteric techniques might make them rich or enable them to buy that dream bag, it’s worth pausing for a moment. Or two. The downside of such unprovable advice and practices is that they risk turning poverty, misfortune, or social struggles into a personal failing, implying that if we lack something, it’s because we didn’t desire (or manifest) it strongly enough. These are dangerous social implications that need to be kept in check, even when caused by superficiality rather than bad intentions.

@cleotoms Replying to @sofia e questo è il motivo per cui non riuscite a manifestare la vita che desiderate! _ #manifestazione #visioboard #manifestation #leggedellattrazione original sound - CLEO TOMS

Cleo Toms’ Misstep

This is what happened to Cleo Toms. At the start of January, the creator shared a slideshow showing images of her Vision Board (a trending social technique following similar principles) alongside what she had achieved in 2024 as proof of manifestation’s utility and effectiveness. In the comments, some pointed out that most of her goals were linked to financial means rather than universal vibrations. Her response began: “This is why you’re not able to manifest the life you want. You’ve understood nothing about manifestation. I worked for many years to be able to desire and achieve these things.” The comments criticized her for being insensitive and superficial, asking her to acknowledge her privilege and understand that not everyone can “manifest” a better life. In a follow-up video, she elaborated on the Law of Attraction while standing by her position. Once again, the comments didn’t let it slide.

@cleotoms Replying to @Teresa original sound - CLEO TOMS

If You Can, You Can (But Only If You Could Before)

The point here is clear. Regardless of one’s faith in manifestation, affirmations, and similar practices - or one’s opinion of Cleo Toms, whose stance can be seen as irritating and out of touch or defensible and valid - it’s true that there are material limitations that cannot be overcome. It’s true that some people are simply born with more advantages than others, due to various factors, and they should acknowledge, internalize, and contextualize that reality. It’s also true that a creative career requires an initial investment, that there are preferential pathways (often tied to connections and financial resources), and that not everyone can afford to travel, achieve, buy, build, dream, create, or desire. Let alone manifest. Encouraging interest in these practices should never make us lose sight of this fact and all the ways in which, together, we can advocate for and educate towards a better society - one that eliminates differences instead of blaming them - and that identifies the causes and effects of these differences in places beyond esotericism or personal will.