Introduction

Out-of-body experiences are often discussed in the context of the paranormal or supernatural, but recent scientific research suggests that the physicality of the human brain may be more influential than previously assumed. New evidence has arisen, connecting a tiny and obscure area of the brain that appears to be the source of both a sense of physicality and out-of-body experiences. We are now better able to understand the complexities behind these psychological phenomena.

An Unexpected Source of Out-of-Body Experiences and Physical Self

Recent research, conducted by scientists at Ruhr University Bochum and King’s College London, appears to locate out-of-body experiences and a sense of a physical self in a single area of the brain. This is an especially important finding given that out-of-body experiences are said to occur without the person engaging in conscious thought. Dr. Arvid Guterstam, who conducted the research, noted that physical sensations and out-of-body experiences both stem from the thalamus, a small structure located close to the center of the brain.

Exploring the Root of the Physical Self

Dr. Guterstam and his team used virtual reality to recreate the feeling of being outside of one’s body – prompting individuals to feel like a third-person observer in a room. The team then tracked the eye movements of volunteers to measure the area of the thalamus responding to such activities. In the study, when the virtual reality stimulus was combined with electrical stimulation of the thalamic nucleus, individuals felt an increased sense of out-of-body experiences.

Conclusion

This evidence provides some insight into the connection between the physical self and out-of-body experiences. While a great deal more needs to be done to fully understand the physical mechanisms behind out-of-body experiences, this study marks a huge step forward in our understanding of the phenomenon and could lead to further developments in the understanding and treatment of mental health conditions.

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