Altered States
Near-death experiences (NDEs) and astral projection both involve a sense of separation from the physical body. However, they have key distinctions. NDEs are involuntary, triggered by life-threatening situations. They often involve a life review, feelings of peace or light, and encounters with deceased loved ones. In NDE, we tend to venture into the ‘space between’, where we go between incarnations. This is very true to what is reported to occur after death. In contrast, astral projection is a voluntary practice where individuals consciously project their awareness outside the body. During astral projection, practitioners aim to control their experience, exploring different realities and interacting with beings on other planes. NDE effects can be life-changing, leading to a deeper appreciation for life and a stronger sense of purpose. Scientifically, NDEs have explanations tied to brain activity during near-death states, while astral projection remains unproven. Some believe it's a valid out-of-body experience, while others consider it a product of the mind or lucid dreaming. Ultimately, both NDEs and astral projection offer glimpses beyond our ordinary world, but through very different paths.