Tips for a Safe Out-of-Body Experience

As human beings, we are often confined to our physical bodies, limited by the boundaries of the tangible world we live in. However, some people claim to have had the experience of separating from their physical body and exploring the spiritual realm. This phenomenon is known as an out-of-body experience (OBE). While some individuals view OBEs as spiritual growth or enlightenment, others may be skeptical or fearful of the potential risks that come along with it. In this article, we will explore what an OBE is, the potential benefits and risks, as well as the steps individuals can take to have a safe and positive experience.

What is an Out-of-Body Experience?

Have you ever felt like you were floating above your body, watching yourself from a distance? That may have been an out-of-body experience (OBE). OBEs are unique instances where a person feels as though they have left their physical body and are observing it from a separate vantage point. In this section, we will delve into the definition of an OBE, exploring the distinct characteristics that accompany them. We’ll also dispel some common myths and misconceptions surrounding the phenomenon. So, let’s explore this fascinating phenomenon together.

Defining an Out-of-Body Experience

An out-of-body experience (OOBE or OBE), as defined by experts, is a phenomenon in which a person feels as if their consciousness is separated from their physical body and is capable of traveling outside of it. These experiences can be spontaneous or induced through various techniques such as meditation, lucid dreaming, or the use of psychedelic drugs.

During an OOBE, a person may feel a sense of floating, flying or hovering above their body, and some even report looking back at their own physical body from a bird’s eye view. They may also experience a range of sensory perceptions not typically associated with their physical body, such as heightened spiritual awareness or a sense of timelessness.

It’s important to note that an OOBE is not the same as a near-death experience (NDE), which involves periods of clinical death and revival. In an OOBE, the person does not experience any physical trauma or cessation of vital signs.

While the existence of OOBEs is debated among scientists and skeptics, many people believe in their reality and report having positive life-changing experiences as a result. However, as with any spiritual or psychological practice, caution should be exercised to ensure safety and minimize potential risks.

Myths and Misconceptions

It is important to address the myths and misconceptions surrounding out-of-body experiences, as these can impact one’s perception of the experience and even create unnecessary fear. Here are some common misconceptions and why they may not be entirely accurate:

Myth	Reality
Out-of-body experiences only happen to spiritual or gifted individuals.	Out-of-body experiences can happen to anyone, regardless of their beliefs or background.
Out-of-body experiences are always positive and enlightening.	While many people have positive experiences, out-of-body experiences can also be scary, disorienting, or emotionally challenging.
Out-of-body experiences are the same as near-death experiences.	While they may share some similarities, out-of-body experiences can happen outside of near-death scenarios and do not necessarily involve a life-threatening situation.
Out-of-body experiences are just dreams or hallucinations.	While there is still much to understand about the science behind out-of-body experiences, many people report the experience as feeling distinct from dreams or hallucinations and having a greater sense of reality.
Out-of-body experiences are dangerous or can cause harm to the physical body.	While there are risks associated with any altered state of consciousness, following safety guidelines can help minimize these risks and many people report positive benefits from their experiences.

By understanding the reality behind these misconceptions, individuals can approach the possibility of an out-of-body experience with a more open and informed mindset.

The Benefits and Risks of an Out-of-Body Experience

As with any experience that takes us beyond our everyday reality, the benefits and risks of an out-of-body experience are complex and multifaceted. While some individuals may have life-changing, transformative experiences that bring them a sense of deep spiritual connection and wisdom, others may encounter challenging and potentially harmful situations. It’s important to approach out-of-body experiences with a sense of curiosity and openness, but also with a healthy dose of caution and preparation. Let’s dive deeper into the potential benefits and risks of an out-of-body experience.

The Benefits of an Out-of-Body Experience

Out-of-body experiences (OBEs) can be highly beneficial for many individuals. Here are some potential benefits of having an OBE:

Benefit	Description
Reduced fear of death	Experiencing an OBE can help individuals develop a greater understanding and acceptance of death, which can lead to decreased anxiety and fear surrounding the end of life.
Increased spiritual awareness	Many individuals report a sense of heightened spirituality or connection to a higher power after having an OBE.
Improved self-awareness	During an OBE, individuals can gain insight into their own thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors, leading to greater self-awareness and personal growth.
Exploration of the unknown	Having an OBE can provide individuals with a unique opportunity to explore the unknown, such as other dimensions or alternate realities.
Decreased anxiety and stress	Some individuals report feeling a sense of calm and peace during and after an OBE, which can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress in daily life.

It’s important to note that not everyone who has an OBE experiences these benefits, and some individuals may have negative or frightening experiences. For this reason, it’s crucial to approach OBEs with caution and prepare yourself for the experience to minimize any potential risks.

The Risks of an Out-of-Body Experience

While out-of-body experiences can provide many benefits, it’s important to be aware of their potential risks. Here are some of the risk factors to consider before attempting an out-of-body experience:

• Possibility of encountering negative beings or environments: When exploring the astral realm or other planes of existence, there is a chance of encountering negative entities or energies. This can lead to feelings of fear, anxiety, or even danger.
• Difficulty returning to your physical body: Although it may not happen often, some people reported having difficulty returning to their physical body after an out-of-body experience. If this happens, it can cause feelings of panic, disorientation, and even physical discomfort.
• Disconnecting from physical reality: While disconnected from the physical body, it’s important to remember that there are still responsibilities and obligations in the physical world. Over time, too much focus on the astral or spiritual realm can lead to neglecting those responsibilities, which can have negative consequences.
• Difficulty integrating the experience into everyday life: Out-of-body experiences can be very powerful, and integrating those experiences into everyday life can be challenging. Some people may struggle with reconciling the differences between their physical reality and their astral experiences.
• Psychological disturbances: In rare cases, out-of-body experiences can trigger or worsen psychological disorders like anxiety, depression, or dissociative disorders. It’s important to be aware of any preexisting conditions before attempting an out-of-body experience.

It’s important to remember that the risks of an out-of-body experience are relatively low compared to the potential benefits. However, taking precautions and being aware of the potential risks can help mitigate any negative consequences that may arise.

Preparing for a Safe Out-of-Body Experience

As you prepare for your out-of-body experience, it’s important to take certain steps to ensure your safety and comfort. The unknown can be both exciting and intimidating, but by setting clear intentions, creating a safe and comfortable environment, and using protective imagery or affirmations, you can better prepare yourself for a positive and safe experience. Don’t rush the process and remember the power of journaling as you open yourself up to this amazing phenomenon.

Set Clear Intentions

One of the most important steps in preparing for a safe out-of-body experience is to set clear intentions. By doing so, you are creating a roadmap for your experience and making it less likely that you will encounter any unexpected negative situations. Here are a few tips for setting clear intentions:

Tip	Description
1. Be Specific	Instead of just intending to have an out-of-body experience, be more specific about what you would like to experience. For example, you might set the intention to visit a certain location or to connect with a particular spirit guide.
2. Use Positive Language	Avoid using negative language when setting your intentions. Instead of saying “I don’t want to encounter any negative beings,” say “I intend to have a peaceful and positive experience.”
3. Keep it Realistic	While it is certainly possible to have incredible, transformative experiences during an out-of-body experience, it’s important to keep your intentions realistic. Set achievable goals for what you would like to get out of the experience.
4. Repeat Your Intentions	Repeat your intentions to yourself several times before beginning your out-of-body experience. This will help to reinforce them and make them more likely to occur.

By setting clear intentions, you are taking control of your out-of-body experience and making it a more positive and transformative experience. Remember to be specific, use positive language, keep it realistic, and repeat your intentions to yourself before beginning.

Create a Safe and Comfortable Environment

When preparing for an out-of-body experience, it’s important to create a safe and comfortable environment to ensure a positive and secure journey. Here are some tips to help you create the ideal environment for your experience:

• Choose a quiet and private space: Find a room or an area where you won’t be interrupted or distracted during your experience. Turn off any electronic devices that may disturb you.
• Set the mood: Create a calming atmosphere by dimming the lights, using essential oils or incense, or playing soothing music or white noise. Make sure the temperature is comfortable for you.
• Clear the space: Remove any clutter or unnecessary items from the room. Clean the space and make it as inviting as possible. You may even want to smudge the space with sage or other cleansing herbs to clear any negative energy.
• Comfort is key: Make sure you’re physically comfortable. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and have a soft blanket nearby. Consider using a pillow or cushion to prop up your head or legs.
• Use supportive props: Use props such as an eye mask, earplugs, or a sleep mask to help you relax and block out any external stimuli that may interfere with your experience.
• Visualize a protective bubble: Imagine a protective bubble surrounding you and your space. This will help keep you safe and secure during your experience.

By creating a safe and comfortable environment, you’re setting yourself up for a positive and peaceful out-of-body experience. Remember to trust the process and approach your experience with an open mind and heart.

Don’t Rush the Process

When it comes to having an out-of-body experience, it is important not to rush the process. Trying to force an OBE can lead to negative experiences or even failure to achieve an OBE altogether. Here are some ways to avoid rushing the process:

• Start with meditation: Before attempting an OBE, it’s important to get into a relaxed and meditative state. Rushing the process without first calming the mind and body can lead to tension and anxiety.
• Be patient: Achieving an OBE can take time and practice. Don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen right away. Keep practicing and refining your technique.
• Don’t over-exert: Trying too hard to achieve an OBE can be counterproductive. It’s important to relax and let the experience come naturally.
• Let go of expectations: Having preconceived notions about what an OBE should look or feel like can also hinder the experience. Let go of any expectations and approach the experience with an open mind.
• Trust the process: Finally, it’s important to trust that the OBE will happen when the time is right. Rushing the process can lead to frustration and even fear, which can be detrimental to a successful OBE.

Remember that having an out-of-body experience is a unique and personal journey. Take the process at your own pace and enjoy the ride!

Use Protective Imagery or Affirmations

When preparing for an out-of-body experience, it can be helpful to use protective imagery or affirmations to help create a safe and positive environment.

Consider incorporating some of the following techniques into your preparation routine:

• Visualize a protective shield: Imagine a bright, glowing shield of light surrounding you and protecting you from any negative energies or entities. This shield can be made of any material or color that you feel is most protective.
• Repeat positive affirmations: Before attempting an out-of-body experience, try repeating positive affirmations to yourself. This can help create a positive and empowering mindset, bringing you into a state of confidence and courage.
• Call on your spirit guides or angels: If you have a relationship with spirit guides or angels, call on them before attempting an out-of-body experience. Ask them to protect and guide you during your journey.
• Envision a sacred space: Imagine yourself in a loving and protective space, such as a temple, cathedral, or nature setting. This can help create a positive and supportive atmosphere for your experience.
• Use grounding imagery: Visualize roots growing from your feet and connecting you to the earth, grounding and stabilizing you throughout your out-of-body experience. Focus on this image to help stay calm and centered.

Remember to choose imagery and affirmations that resonate with you and make you feel safe and protected. With these techniques, you can create a supportive environment and ease any fears or anxiety about your out-of-body experience.

Keep a Dream Journal

Keeping a dream journal is an essential preparation step for having a safe and successful out-of-body experience. It allows you to become more aware of your dreams and develop your dream recall ability. By recording your dreams, you are also training your mind to pay attention to your subconscious and inner experiences. This can translate to greater awareness and control during an out-of-body experience.

Benefits of Keeping a Dream Journal:

Benefits:	Explanation:
Enhances Dream Recall	Writing down your dreams soon after waking up improves your ability to remember your dreams in detail.
Identifies Patterns	By keeping track of your dreams, you may start to notice recurring themes or symbols, which can provide insight into your subconscious mind.
Inspires Creativity	Dreams can be a source of inspiration and insight for creative endeavors, such as writing or art.

How to Keep a Dream Journal:

1. Keep your journal within arm’s reach of your bed, so you can easily access it immediately after waking up.
2. Write down as much detail as you can remember, including the emotions you felt during the dream.
3. Include the date and any relevant environmental factors, such as the position you slept in or any medications taken before bed.
4. Review your entries regularly to identify patterns or recurring symbols.
5. Consider sharing your dreams with a therapist or trusted friend to gain further insight.

By keeping a dream journal, you can gain a better understanding of your subconscious mind and improve your ability to recall and control your dreams, which can ultimately lead to a safer and more successful out-of-body experience.

During an Out-of-Body Experience

Once you’ve successfully initiated an out-of-body experience, it’s important to stay calm and focused in order to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. During this phase, you will undoubtedly encounter a lot of new sensations, sights, and sounds that may be overwhelming at first. However, by following a few simple guidelines and techniques, you can maintain control and make the most out of your experience. Let’s explore some helpful tips for staying safe and grounded during an out-of-body experience.

Stay Calm and Grounded

During an out-of-body experience, it’s essential to stay calm and grounded to avoid becoming overwhelmed or lost. Here are some tips to help you stay focused and remain centered during your experience:

• Breathe deeply and steadily: Slow and steady breathing can help you feel more relaxed and focused, so take deep breaths in and out if you feel tense or anxious.
• Focus on an anchor: Choose a mental image, word, or object to use as an anchor point to help you stay grounded in your experience. When you start to feel lost or disoriented, return to your anchor and use it to guide your focus and attention.
• Use mantras or affirmations: Repeating a positive phrase or affirmation can help you stay calm, centered, and focused during your experience. Choose a statement that works for you and repeat it to yourself as needed.
• Remind yourself of your intentions: If you start to feel overwhelmed or lost, remind yourself of your intentions for the experience. This can help you stay focused and motivated, even when things get challenging.
• Avoid distractions: During your experience, try to avoid external distractions that can pull you out of your state of mind. Turn off your phone, close the door, and eliminate other possible disruptions that could distract or startle you out of your experience.

Remember, staying calm and grounded is key to having a safe and enjoyable out-of-body experience. By using these tips and techniques, you can stay centered and focused, allowing you to explore and learn more about yourself and the world around you.

Avoid Negative Beings or Environments

During an out-of-body experience, it is important to avoid negative beings or environments. This means to be mindful of where you travel and who you meet in the astral realm. Some entities that you may encounter can be benevolent and helpful, while others may have negative intentions and harm you. Here are some tips on how to avoid negative beings or environments during an out-of-body experience:

• Set clear intentions: Before embarking on your journey, set an intention to only encounter benevolent entities and to avoid negative beings or environments.
• Use protective imagery or affirmations: Visualize a protective shield around you or recite affirmations that enhance your sense of safety and security.
• Trust your intuition: If you sense danger or fear, trust your intuition and steer away from whatever is causing the discomfort.
• Stay calm and centered: Negative entities can prey on fear and anxiety, so it is important to maintain a calm and centered state of mind.
• End the experience if necessary: If you encounter negative beings or environments that you cannot handle, end the experience by returning to your physical body.

Remember that in the astral realm, your thoughts and emotions can manifest into reality, so it is important to cultivate positive and loving vibrations to attract benevolent entities and experiences. By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable out-of-body experience.

Use Visualization or Anchoring Techniques

One effective way to ensure a safe out-of-body experience is to use visualization or anchoring techniques. These tools can help you stay grounded and focused on your intentions throughout the experience. Here are some examples:

Technique	Description
Visualize a Protective Bubble or Shield	Imagine that you are surrounded by a sphere of light or a protective shield that keeps negative or unwanted energies out. This technique can help you feel safe and secure during your experience.
Create an Anchor	Choose a physical sensation, such as the feeling of your breath, a particular sound or smell, or the texture of an object, to serve as an anchor that keeps you grounded in your physical body. Focus on this sensation throughout your experience to help you stay connected to your body and return to it when you need to.
Use Positive Affirmations	Repeat positive affirmations, such as “I am safe and protected” or “I trust the universe to guide me,” to help you stay focused on your intentions and the positive aspects of your experience.
Visualize Your Physical Body	Picture yourself lying in bed or sitting in a comfortable position, and imagine a cord or beam of light connecting you to your physical body. This can help you maintain your connection to your body throughout your experience, and make it easier to return to your body when you’re ready to end the experience.

Using these visualization or anchoring techniques can help you stay safe and grounded during an out-of-body experience. It’s important to find the technique that works best for you and to practice it regularly, so you can feel confident and prepared when the opportunity for an OBE arises.

Remember Your Physical Body

During an out-of-body experience, it’s crucial to remember your physical body. This serves as an anchor to reality and can help ground you if things start to feel overwhelming or confusing. Here are some ways to help remember your physical body:

• Visualize your physical body before you leave it. Spend some time imagining your body lying in bed or sitting in a chair. This will help you establish a connection to it.
• Check in with your physical body periodically during the experience. You can do this by focusing on your breathing or imagining a cord of light connecting you to your body.
• Use physical sensations to bring yourself back to your body. For example, you can try wiggling your fingers or toes, rolling your eyes, or clenching and relaxing your muscles.
• Repeat a phrase to yourself such as “I am connected to my physical body” or “I can go back to my body whenever I want” to help reinforce your connection to reality.

Remembering your physical body can also help you avoid the risk of staying too long in the out-of-body state, which can lead to physical and mental exhaustion. By staying connected to your physical body, you can ensure a safe and meaningful out-of-body experience.

Don’t Overstay Your Welcome

When it comes to having an out-of-body experience, it is important to remember not to overstay your welcome in the astral realm. While it can be tempting to explore and extend your time in this state, doing so can lead to negative consequences. Here are some tips on how to avoid overstaying your welcome and maintain a safe experience:

• Set an intention for how long you want to stay: Before beginning your out-of-body experience, set a clear intention for how long you want to stay in the astral realm. Whether it is 10 minutes or an hour, make sure to stick to your intention and avoid lingering for too long.
• Monitor your energy levels: Pay attention to your energy levels during the experience. If you start feeling drained or tired, it may be a sign that it is time to end the experience and return to your physical body.
• Stay aware of time: Keep an eye on the time to ensure you do not overstay your welcome. This is particularly important if you have any obligations or appointments in your physical life.
• Be mindful of your surroundings: If you start to sense any negative or uncomfortable energy, it may be time to end the experience and return to your physical body. Trust your intuition and avoid pushing yourself too far.
• End the experience on a positive note: When it is time to return to your physical body, take the time to end the experience on a positive note. You may want to express gratitude for the experience or offer a positive affirmation to help ground yourself.

Remember, overstaying your welcome in the astral realm can lead to negative consequences such as feeling disconnected from your physical body or encountering negative entities. By setting intentions, monitoring your energy levels, staying aware of time, being mindful of your surroundings, and ending the experience on a positive note, you can ensure a safe and fulfilling out-of-body experience.

What to Do If Things Go Wrong

Sometimes, despite our best efforts and intentions, things can go wrong during an out-of-body experience. It can be a confusing and disorienting experience, leaving us feeling vulnerable and out of control. However, it’s important to remember that there are steps we can take to regain our sense of grounding and ensure our safety. In this section, we will explore some strategies for how to handle fear or anxiety, reconnect with our physical bodies, and ultimately, end the experience in a safe and effective manner.

How to Handle Fear or Anxiety

It is quite common to experience fear or anxiety while having an out-of-body experience. This is especially true for beginners who are not accustomed to this phenomenon. However, it is important to remember that fear and anxiety can exacerbate the situation, leading to a negative experience. Here are some tips on how to handle fear or anxiety during an out-of-body experience:

• Acknowledge and Accept: The first step is to acknowledge that you are experiencing fear or anxiety. Accepting this feeling and acknowledging its presence can help ease your mind and prevent it from escalating.
• Breathe: Deep breathing is a powerful tool to calm your body and mind. Take slow, deep breaths, focusing on the sound and sensation of each inhale and exhale. This can help you control your emotions and bring a sense of calmness.
• Grounding: Focus your attention on your physical body. Remind yourself that you are safe and secure, lying in your bed or sitting in your room. Take your attention away from the fear or anxiety and ground yourself in the present moment.
• Repeat Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to reframe your thoughts and shift your focus. Repeat phrases like “I am safe and protected” or “I am in control of my experience” to calm yourself.
• Call for Help: If you feel overwhelmed, call for help. You can ask for assistance from higher beings, guides or angels who are there to help and support you. Know that you’re not alone and there is always someone to turn to for help.

Remember, fear and anxiety are normal and can happen during an out-of-body experience. With these tips, you can learn to manage your emotions and turn your OBE into a positive experience.

Grounding Techniques to Reconnect with Your Physical Body

When experiencing an out-of-body experience, it is important to have grounding techniques to help you reconnect with your physical body. Grounding techniques can help bring you back to your body and alleviate any feelings of disorientation or detachment from reality that may occur. Here are some effective techniques for grounding yourself during an out-of-body experience:

Breathing Exercises	Breathing exercises can help you reconnect with your physical body by focusing on your breath. Take slow, deep breaths and focus on the sensation of air moving in and out of your body. This will help bring your attention back to your physical body and ground you.
Visualization Techniques	Visualization techniques involve creating a mental image of yourself returning to your physical body. Imagine a cord connecting your astral body to your physical body, and picture the cord growing stronger and thicker until you are fully reconnected with your body.
Mindful Movement	Mindful movement, such as gentle yoga or stretching, can help you reconnect with your physical body by bringing awareness to your body and its sensations. Focus on the feeling of your muscles stretching and contracting, and the sensation of your feet or hands on the floor.
Physical Touch	Physical touch can also help ground you during an out-of-body experience. Focus on the sensation of your hand on your chest or your feet touching the ground. You can also try hugging yourself or holding onto an object to bring your attention back to your physical body.

By using these grounding techniques, you can safely and effectively reconnect with your physical body during an out-of-body experience. It is important to remember that while out-of-body experiences can be exhilarating and transformative, it is always essential to prioritize your safety and well-being.

How to End the Experience

Strongly ending an out-of-body experience is an important step in ensuring a safe and positive experience. Here are some techniques that can help you return to your physical body:

Technique	Description
Intention Setting	During your preparation phase, set the intention that when you are done exploring, you will return to your physical body. This can help you maintain a sense of control over your experience.
Visualization	Imagine a bright light enveloping your physical body and pulling you back into it. You can also visualize a cord connecting your astral body to your physical body, and use that cord to guide you back.
Calling Upon Guides	If you have spirit guides or angels that you work with, you can ask them to help you return to your body when it’s time to end the experience.
Physical Sensations	Focus on the physical sensations of your body, such as the weight of your body on the bed or the feeling of your breath. This can ground you in your physical body and help you return to it.

Remember, it’s important to end the experience when you’re ready and not to overstay your welcome. By using these techniques, you can safely and comfortably end your out-of-body experience and return to your physical body.

Conclusion

In conclusion, undergoing an out-of-body experience can offer incredible benefits, such as a heightened sense of awareness and a deeper understanding of one’s own consciousness. However, it is important to acknowledge and be aware of the potential risks and challenges that come with this practice. By taking steps to prepare and stay safe during an out-of-body experience, individuals can have a positive and transformative experience.

Setting clear intentions, creating a safe and comfortable environment, and using protective imagery or affirmations can all contribute to a successful and safe out-of-body experience. During the experience itself, it is important to stay calm and grounded, avoid negative beings or environments, and remember the connection to the physical body. If things do go wrong, there are grounding techniques and ways to end the experience safely.

Overall, the most important aspect of practicing out-of-body experiences is to approach it with respect and caution. It is not a practice to be taken lightly, and individuals should always prioritize their physical and emotional well-being. By following these guidelines and being mindful throughout the process, anyone can have a safe and rewarding out-of-body experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can anyone have an out-of-body experience?

Yes, anyone has the potential to have an out-of-body experience at some point in their life.

Is an out-of-body experience dangerous?

While there are some risks involved with having an out-of-body experience, it is generally not considered dangerous.

Can you get stuck in an out-of-body state?

It is rare to get permanently stuck in an out-of-body state; however, some people may experience difficulty returning to their physical body.

Does having an out-of-body experience mean I have a spiritual ability?

Not necessarily. While out-of-body experiences can be connected to spirituality, they are not a requirement for having spiritual abilities.

Can you control what you do during an out-of-body experience?

Yes, with practice, you can learn to control your actions and movements during an out-of-body experience.

Can out-of-body experiences be induced through substances?

While some substances may induce altered states of consciousness, they are not recommended for inducing out-of-body experiences and can be harmful.

Is it possible to have a negative out-of-body experience?

Yes, some people may have negative experiences during an out-of-body state, such as encountering frightening or negative entities.

Can out-of-body experiences be scientifically explained?

There is no scientific explanation for out-of-body experiences yet, but some researchers suggest it may be connected to brain activity and neural processes.

Can you have an out-of-body experience during the day?

Yes, it is possible to have an out-of-body experience during the day, though they are more commonly associated with nighttime sleep.

Are out-of-body experiences contagious?

No, out-of-body experiences are not contagious and cannot be transmitted from person to person.

References

• How to Have an Out of Body Experience
• Out-of-body experience