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Belief is at the heart of the Christmas season. For children, it’s the joy of Santa Claus, the wonder of reindeer flying through the night, and the magic of Christmas morning. For others, it’s the deeper meaning of faith, the celebration of traditions passed down through generations, and the promise of hope and renewal. Belief infuses every part of the holiday—whether it’s believing in the kindness of giving, the possibility of miracles, or the warmth of family and togetherness. Yet belief isn’t just about holiday customs or seasonal cheer—it’s also a powerful force in shaping how we experience the world, from our greatest successes to our everyday health.
Science now shows that what we believe—about ourselves, our abilities, and our future—can significantly influence how we feel and what we achieve. As we reflect on belief during this special season, let’s explore how it works in the mind, how it affects our bodies, and how we can use it to create healthier, happier lives.
Belief isn’t just an abstract concept—it’s wired into the way our brains process information. At the center of this is the Reticular Activating System (RAS), a network of neurons in the brainstem that acts as a filter for the overwhelming amount of information our senses take in every second. Experts estimate that our brains are exposed to about 11 million pieces of information per second, but we can only consciously process around 40 to 50 of them.
The RAS plays a critical role in deciding which pieces of information deserve our attention. It prioritizes based on what we’ve trained it to focus on—our goals, our fears, and, most importantly, our beliefs. For example, if you decide you want to buy a certain car, you suddenly start seeing it everywhere. It’s not that there are more of those cars—it’s that your brain is now tuned in to notice them.
This same mechanism applies to other aspects of life. If you believe you’re capable and deserving of good things, your RAS will focus on information that align with and supports that belief. On the other hand, if you believe you’re unlucky or doomed to fail, your brain may overlook solutions or chances to improve your situation.
Belief goes hand-in-hand with expectations, and research shows just how much they influence outcomes. The placebo effect is one of the best examples: people who believe a treatment will work often experience real improvements, even if the treatment is inactive. It’s not just “in their heads”—their bodies respond in measurable ways, such as reduced pain or improved healing. Conversely, the nocebo effect demonstrates the opposite: negative expectations can lead to negative outcomes, like experiencing side effects simply because you expect them.
This is one reason visualization techniques, hypnotherapy, and affirmations can be so effective—they help reframe limiting beliefs and tune the mind toward positive outcomes. By aligning your thoughts with your goals, you’re more likely to notice opportunities and take actions that support success.
Belief also has profound effects on physical health. Studies show that positive beliefs can reduce stress, strengthen the immune system, and even speed up recovery from illness. For instance, people who view themselves as healthy are more likely to make choices that align with that belief, like exercising, eating well, and getting enough sleep. These behaviors reinforce the belief, creating a positive cycle.
Faith also plays a role. Whether it’s faith in God, a higher power, or the process of healing itself, this trust fosters resilience and hope. During challenging times, such as illness or loss, belief provides a sense of stability and purpose, helping us navigate uncertainty with greater ease.
So, how can you use the power of belief to improve your own well-being? Here are a few strategies to get started:
Belief is a theme that runs deeply through the Christmas season, but its power extends far beyond the holidays. What we choose to believe—about ourselves, our health, and our potential—can shape our experiences in profound ways.
This Christmas, as you reflect on the spirit of belief, consider how you can carry its magic into your daily life. Whether it’s trusting in your ability to heal, focusing on gratitude, or embracing faith in something greater, belief isn’t just about hope—it’s about creating the conditions for a healthier, happier you.
