A recent study conducted by the University of Virginia School of Medicine, published in Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, has revealed that out-of-body experiences (OBEs) can significantly enhance empathy and emotional connectedness. Dr. Marina Weiler, a neuroscientist with UVA’s Division of Perceptual Studies and lead author, explained that OBEs can trigger profound psychological transformations, fostering a deeper sense of understanding and compassion. “Empathy is a fundamental aspect of human interaction that allows individuals to connect deeply with others, fostering trust and understanding,” Weiler noted. OBEs, in which a person feels as though they are outside their physical body, can arise from various causes, such as sensory deprivation, hypnosis, or even spontaneously in critical situations. While often linked to religious or supernatural events, Weiler and her colleagues’ research frames these experiences within a scientific context, underscoring their psychological and neurological significance. Central to the study is the concept of “ego dissolution,” a state where one’s sense of individuality weakens, leading to a greater connection with the world. Researchers suggest that OBEs stimulate brain regions like the temporoparietal junction and the default mode network, which may amplify empathy and compassion. “We propose that OBEs might engender these profound changes through the process of ego dissolution,” the researchers stated, noting that these changes can have lasting effects on behavior and how individuals perceive others. The study’s conclusions are bolstered by numerous first-hand accounts. One participant described her OBE as being enveloped in “100% unconditional love,” fundamentally altering her worldview and instilling deep compassion. According to the study, 55% of participants who experienced an OBE reported life-altering changes, while 71% noted long-term benefits. These findings suggest that OBEs could be harnessed to promote empathy and social cohesion. Dr. Weiler and her team believe that understanding the mechanisms behind OBEs could pave the way for therapeutic applications aimed at enhancing empathy, with broad societal implications. Experts argue that studying altered states of consciousness like OBEs may offer valuable insights for fostering empathy in modern society. However, the researchers emphasize that further investigation is necessary to fully grasp the effects of OBEs and the neurobiological processes at play. The post Out-of-body experiences affect empathy levels, research shows appeared first on Anomalien.com.