What is Aura?
Last updated: February 25, 2026
A subtle invisible essence or field emanating from human beings and all living things. In New Thought, it is the mental atmosphere surrounding a person.
Understanding Aura in New Thought
A subtle invisible essence or field emanating from human beings and all living things. In New Thought, it is the mental atmosphere surrounding a person.
In New Thought, the concept of the aura extends beyond a mere energetic field. It is understood as a dynamic reflection of an individual's mental, emotional, and spiritual state, directly influenced by their thoughts and beliefs. This perspective aligns with New Thought's core tenet that consciousness shapes reality, suggesting that a vibrant and harmonious aura is indicative of positive mental states and contributes to overall well-being and success. Historically, while the idea of an emanating energy field has ancient roots across various cultures, New Thought specifically integrates it into its framework of mind-power and manifestation, emphasizing that cultivating positive thoughts can literally brighten and strengthen one's aura, thus attracting desired outcomes.
What the Teachers Say
Aura vs. Physical Body
While the physical body represents the visible, material aspect of human existence, the aura embodies the invisible, energetic dimension. Understanding both aspects provides a complete picture of human nature in New Thought philosophy.
| Aspect | Aura | Physical Body |
|---|---|---|
| Visibility | Invisible to ordinary sight, perceived through sensitivity | Visible and tangible to all physical senses |
| Composition | Mental and emotional energy, thought vibrations | Physical matter, flesh, bones, and organs |
| Influence Range | Extends beyond body, affects others at a distance | Limited to direct physical contact and presence |
| Changeability | Rapidly changes with thoughts and emotions | Changes slowly through physical processes |
| Primary Function | Transmits mental atmosphere and spiritual state | Provides physical vehicle for consciousness |
Etymology
The term "aura" originates from the Latin word "aura," meaning "breeze," "breath," or "air." This Latin root, in turn, derives from the Ancient Greek "aura" (αὔρα), carrying similar connotations of a gentle current of air or an emanation. Over time, particularly in esoteric and spiritual traditions, the term evolved to describe a subtle, invisible emanation or field believed to surround living beings, reflecting their inner essence.
How to Practice This
Practitioners often engage in visualization exercises to strengthen and cleanse their aura, imagining a bright, protective light surrounding their body. Affirmations are also used, where individuals declare positive statements about their energetic field to reinforce its vibrancy and resilience. Meditation practices focused on cultivating inner peace and positive emotions are believed to naturally enhance the aura, making it more radiant and attractive. Additionally, some New Thought adherents utilize color therapy or crystal healing, believing these modalities can influence and balance the energetic qualities of the aura for improved well-being and manifestation.
Connection to Manifestation
The aura plays a crucial role in manifestation by serving as the energetic field through which thoughts and desires are projected into the surrounding environment. New Thought teaches that a strong, positive aura amplifies one's ability to attract desired experiences and opportunities by broadcasting harmonious vibrations that align with similar energies. By consciously cultivating uplifting thoughts and emotions, practitioners can strengthen their auric field, making it a powerful tool for manifestation. The aura essentially acts as the bridge between inner mental states and outer physical experiences, translating consciousness into attractive force.
Frequently Asked Questions
While most people cannot visually see auras, many can sense them as feelings of comfort, unease, attraction, or repulsion around certain individuals. New Thought teaches that developing spiritual sensitivity through meditation and mindfulness can enhance one's ability to perceive auric emanations. Some naturally sensitive individuals may perceive auras as colors, sensations, or intuitive impressions.
Negative thoughts create discordant vibrations that weaken and darken the auric field, making it less attractive and potentially repelling positive experiences and people. New Thought philosophy emphasizes that persistent negative thinking creates an aura that broadcasts limitation and conflict. However, this condition can be immediately improved through conscious cultivation of positive, harmonious thoughts and emotions.
Regular meditation, positive affirmations, cultivating gratitude, and maintaining loving thoughts are primary methods for strengthening the aura. New Thought also emphasizes the importance of mental discipline, avoiding negative people and situations when possible, and consciously choosing uplifting thoughts throughout the day. Physical practices like deep breathing and spending time in nature can also enhance auric vitality.
Yes, New Thought teaches that auric emanations significantly influence personal relationships by creating immediate attraction or repulsion between individuals. People unconsciously respond to each other's mental atmospheres, explaining instant connections or uncomfortable feelings around certain people. Maintaining a positive, loving aura naturally attracts harmonious relationships and improves existing ones.
The aura and personal magnetism are closely related but not identical concepts in New Thought philosophy. The aura is the invisible emanation itself, while personal magnetism refers to the attractive power that results from a strong, positive auric field. A well-developed aura creates natural charisma and influence, which New Thought authors often describe as magnetic personality.
In the Source Texts (3)
Good-will produces a great aura of protection about the one who sends it, and “No weapon that is formed against him shall prosper.” In other words, ~love~ and good-will de…
…e asked me to lunch with her to keep up her courage. When I joined her at a restaurant, I said, “This is no time to economize. Order an expensive luncheon, act as if you have already received the three thousand dollars.”…
…ays find the nomad character of the builders and that they are invested with an aura of mystery and romance such as we find nowhere else, though we always find it surrounding these builders, even in countries so far apart as…
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Used by: Leadbeater, Cayce