* At Heaven's Gate? Out of Body or Out of Mind?

The near-death/out of body experience has been common since ancient times. Many people attach an out-of-this world meaning, e.g., that they are previewing "heaven." Science is discovering explanations for the phenomenon and can duplicate the experience. Notable is that the experience crosses all religions and, as well, by those who disbelieve in an afterlife.

Near Death Experience
by Timothy Moore
Gale Encyclopedia of Psychology

It appears that, rather than any spiritual journey or other world phenomenon, NDEs may be best understood by examining human physiology, neurochemistry, and psychology. At this time, there is strong research evidence to indicate that many of the symptoms of NDEs may be caused by anoxia, or a lack of oxygen to the brain. In the human visual system, for example, neurons (brain cells) deprived of oxygen will start to fire out of control. Since the majority of the cells in our visual cortex (the portion of the brain where visual information is processed) respond to stimulation in the central visual field, the result is a white spot in the center with fewer cells firing out of control in the periphery. As oxygen deprivation continues, the white spot grows and the sensation of moving through a tunnel toward a white light is produced. Similarly, it is possible that the life review process is a result of depriving the temporal lobes of oxygen. When the temporal lobes of the brain, an area largely involved in memory production, are deprived of oxygen, neurotransmitters are released and massive electrical activity ensues. In laboratory research, when people's temporal lobes are stimulated with electrodes, many subjects experience the reliving of memories, out of body experiences, and even the sensation of moving through a tunnel toward a light. Oxygen deprivation can also affect the limbic system, which contains the seat of emotions in the brain. The intensely pleasurable feelings of love and well-being that accompany moving toward the light may therefore be a consequence of increased activity in the limbic system.

Using Ketamine to Induce the Near-Death Experience: Mechanism of Action and Therapeutic Potential
by Dr. Karl L. R. Jansen,
Psychiatrist

Near-Death Experiences: In or out of the body? by Susan Blackmore

Image from Wikipedia