Out-of-body experiences in the context of hypnosis: Phenomenology, methodology, and neurophysiology.

Out-of-body experiences (OBEs) are characterized by disruptions between normally integrated subsystems that modulate the visuo-spatial representation of embodied consciousness. Similar disruptions in the coordination of cognitive processes, and corresponding alterations in cortical functional connectivity, have been observed in highly suggestible individuals following a hypnotic induction and after specific hypnotic suggestions. Such individuals more frequently report OBEs during their daily lives and spontaneously following a hypnotic induction than those who are low in suggestibility. They are also capable of experiencing OBEs following corresponding hypnotic suggestions. We present a review and theoretical integration of the phenomenology and neurophysiology of spontaneous and experimentally-induced OBEs during hypnosis and conclude by arguing for the utility of hypnosis as an instrumental method for the experimental induction and manipulation of these experiences