Both types of OBEs are generally safe and not life-threatening. It is commonly held that during an OBE a person’s consciousness is projected out of the physical body into the astral body. The astral body is a replica of the physical body, including the emotional and mental attributes, except the astral body is composed of fine nonphysical matter (subtle matter). During an OBE, the astral body remains attached to the physical body by a subtle energy line, commonly called the silver cord, and a portion of the experiencer’s energy remains anchored in the physical body. An OBE can vary from floating above or near one’s physical body to exploring the physical world or venturing to the Earth’s astral plane and beyond. In nonphysical dimensions, OBErs may interact with deceased humans and other beings with whom communication is conducted through thought transference.

One of the pioneering researchers on astral projection was Robert Monroe, whose 1971 book Journeys Out-of-the Body is credited with popularizing the term “out-of-body-experience.” His research is based on his personal experiences of astral projection and astral travel on the earth and to realms beyond. Links to his fascinating books can be found in the Science-Based Awakening Library on this resource page.