Out-of-body experience: The science and spirituality of leaving your body—plus 7 expert-backed steps to activate it

Ever had a moment when you’re floating outside your body, watching yourself from above? That’s an out-of-body experience (OBE).

People have reported OBEs for centuries, often experiencing them during meditation, near-death experiences (NDEs), or at the precipice of sleep. Spiritual tribes would call it “the soul leaving the body,” while many scientific communities tend to call it “a trick of the brain.” 

So, which is it? And more importantly, can you have one on purpose?

Yes, according ...