Magical thinking is the belief that certain events, objects, persons, or situations contain special, often intangible powers and influence, manifesting itself in superstitious behavior and beliefs. It is rooted in the (incorrect) assumption that one’s physical environment can be manipulated through subconscious activities, such as prayers, rituals, and incantations. Magical thinking is an important and deeply entrenched part of human psychology and culture that has varied across time and space.

See also: flow state, delta wave, altered state, peak experience, mystical experience