There are basically three types of out-of-body experiences(OBEs). The type that has received the most attention during the past 30 years is near-death experiences(NDEs). This is not the type of OBE you want to have, as it requires the individual to clinically die for a short time. In my book Peaceful Transition I refer to this form of OBE as unconscious dying. The main difference between a NDE and death itself is that the former lives to tell about it. NDEs are reversible, as witnessed by the many reports we have of this phenomenon.

There is no connection between the subconscious mind and the Higher Self during a NDE and most forms of death. This thread of continuity that is so critical for conscious dying, which we will discuss shortly, is simply missing. I refer to NDEs as unconscious dying for this very reason. Traditional forms of OBEs are quite natural and perfectly safe. Runner’s hypnosis, all dreams, reverie states, drug-induced states and the mind’s response to extremely stressful situations are common examples of OBEs.

The most important type of OBE is what I term a conscious-out-of-body experience(COBE). During this OBE there is a direct connection between the subconscious(soul) and Higher Self(superconscious mind). By establishing and maintaining this all-important connection at the precise moment of death, the soul has an opportunity to perfect itself, merge with its perfect counterpart(the Higher Self) and ascend to the higher planes to join God. This is why I refer to this type as conscious dying. All types of OBEs are safe.

Naturally, you don’t want to have a NDE, but even this type won’t kill you. The cause of your crossing into spirit, or clinical death, will be whatever factors are around that result in the cessation of your life’s processes. OBEs are sometimes referred to as altered states of consciousness(ASC). Most people assume that death is permanent and irreversible. Dying and death are almost always viewed as something to be feared and avoided for as long as possible in our civilized society. Dying, especially conscious dying, is a tremendous opportunity for spiritual growth.

I have worked with hundreds of dying patients, training them to make this transition consciously. What I have observed amounted to an empowerment reflected in these patients’ ability to let go of their fears of death and face this voyage with a sense of pride, honor and peace. All types of OBEs demonstrate that there is no such thing as death. This state is merely a change of dimensions, a peaceful transition. This is a time for completing unfinished business. To finish our business we must stop holding back. By removing the tendency to separate ourselves from others, we can merge into a spiritual oneness and complete our business. This principle is perfectly illustrated by our soul merging with our Higher Self at the moment of death. Conscious dying does just that.

The following are common characteristics of OBEs:

• Sensations of leaving and re-entering the physical body.
• The experience of dual consciousness(experiencing yourself in both the physical and astral bodies) when near the physical body.
• Colors are perceived more vividly, as are objects. The astral eyes, however, cannot read fine writing or details.
• Scenes of unexplainable beauty are noted. These are often unrelated to the physical environment.
• Fellings of “tuggings” at the back of the head when the OBE is too long in duration. This precedes the return to the physical body.

The astral world is usually somewhat different from the physical world. In order to experience this wonderful state I highly recommend my Astral Voyaging Program and Conscious Dying Training Program. Each program is comprised of 6 cassettes or CDs to guide you through these various levels. All tapes include a white light protection. This will prevent the paralysis and amnesia that is so common with classic approaches. You will also be trained to control and direct your OBE or COBE. My books Peaceful Transition and Astral Voyages work well with these training programs.