Pilates Thoughtful Tuesday: Manifestation and the Mind-Body Connection

Colourful brain pathways illuminate the mind's energy, symbolising manifestation through focused thought.

As I scroll through social media lately, one word keeps popping up again and again — manifestation. It’s everywhere. Quotes, challenges, reels with calming music and glowing affirmations — all inviting us to “manifest” the life we want. Now, I’ve always found this subject interesting. I believe there’s far more potential in the mind than we give it credit for. But I also have a logical side that needs to understand how and why something works. So, what is manifestation, and can it be backed by science?

What is Manifestation?

At its core, manifestation is the idea that by focusing your thoughts, intentions, and energy on a desired outcome, you can bring it into your reality. It sounds simple — almost too simple. But beneath the trendiness lies a deeper concept that touches on brain science, psychology, and even elements of mindfulness.

What the Research Says

Manifestation, in the scientific sense, is often linked to something called mental rehearsal — the process of visualising an outcome with clarity and emotion. This isn’t magic. It's cognitive conditioning.

Studies in neuroscience show that when we vividly imagine doing something (whether it's performing a Pilates move or achieving a personal goal), the brain activates similar neural pathways as if we were actually doing it. This is the basis for visualisation techniques used by athletes, performers, and increasingly, mental health practitioners.

The reticular activating system (RAS) in the brain plays a role here too. It filters the information we take in and decides what we notice. When we focus on a goal or desired state, our RAS becomes attuned to recognising opportunities that align with it — in other words, our mind starts supporting the direction we set.

There’s also evidence that positive thinking and affirmations can increase resilience, reduce stress, and support more consistent motivation. However, none of this replaces action. It’s about mindset complementing method — much like how breath supports movement in Pilates.

A Logical Approach to Manifestation

If you're someone who wants to explore manifestation without falling into the fluffy trap of vague promises, here's a more grounded way to start:

1. Define Your Intention Clearly: Not just “I want to be successful” — but what does that success look like? Be specific. Use words that resonate personally.

2. Visualise it with Feeling: Spend a few quiet minutes each day imagining your intention already fulfilled. Notice what you feel in your body. How are you moving, breathing, holding yourself?

3. Write it Down: Keep a small journal or notepad where you write your intention as if it’s already happening. This builds neural familiarity.

4. Act Towards It: Manifestation without action is wishful thinking. Ask yourself: what small step can I take today that brings this vision closer?

5. Notice the Shifts: Be open to changes — not everything will happen as expected, but your awareness will shift. You’ll start recognising signs, opportunities, and behaviours that support your intention.

Bringing it into the Pilates Space

As Pilates teachers, we're constantly guiding clients to use their minds with their bodies — visualising the spine lengthening, imagining energy drawing inwards, or picturing a straight line from head to toe. This is manifestation in motion.

So this week, whether you’re teaching, moving, or just taking time for yourself, ask: What am I focusing on? Because what we focus on grows.

And maybe — just maybe — manifestation isn’t magic. Maybe it’s just good science, consistent focus, and mindful practice.