accept responsibility for our individual thoughts and actions. Some of the toughest lessons we are here to learn are directly related to thought control and personal responsibility. Our ability to focus and direct our thoughts is a central element of our personal evolution. The benefits we receive are beyond our expectations—our life is our reward.
CLARITY TECHNIQUE A simple exercise is extremely effective for avoiding the disjointed or hazy awareness that some people report just after separation from the physical body. Immediately after separation, demand your complete clarity to be present: “Clarity now!” “I demand complete clarity!” or “Awareness now!” When making this request, avoid any phrase that includes a reference to your physical body or physical surroundings. For example, the statement “I demand full awareness in my body” will immediately snap you back to your physical body.
Always remember that when you are out-of-body you are experiencing a higher-frequency, less dense energy form and environment. Your new surroundings, including your non-physical body, are much more responsive to thought-energy than the physical body. When making your request, keep it firm and specific and the results will be immediate and effective.
The stronger and more focused the request, the more effective the results.
This technique can also be used to upgrade a lucid dream to a fully conscious out-of-body experience. The key is to repeat this procedure until the fogginess fades and your full awareness is present. The clarity technique is a procedure I automatically do immediately following separation from my physical body. In addition, I repeat it anytime my vision or awareness is less than ideal. I have found that sharpens non-physical perceptions but also enhances control and memory recall.
Fear Reduction and Control Fear can be an obstacle to successful out-of-body exploration. Our personal anxieties, both conscious and unconscious, create invisible walls around us, boxing us into a narrow comfort zone and hindering us from achieving our highest potential. The choices we make and the lives we live are often directed by the way we manage our individual fears.
When I was a young man, I had a high school friend who was considered one of the finest baseball players in Baltimore.
After some media attention, his coach arranged for him to attend a major-league tryout session. But after weeks of encouragement from his coach and fellow players he told me a secret, “I’m afraid I’ll fail, I’m just not good enough.” He never did go to the tryout; his fear of failure was more than he could handle. Instead of going for his dream, he surrendered to his fear.
Many believe that the very act of separating from our physical body and exploring new realms of the universe is effective in reducing our personal fears and limits. After an out-of-body experience, it’s common to hear people speak of their personal breakthroughs. Sometimes this is a realization or confrontation with an inner aspect of themselves; at other times it’s the recognition that they are much more than just a physical creature. On a number of occasions I have had people tell me that they had somehow connected to a more expansive part of themselves. Whatever we call it—spirit, higher self, God, or universal mind—this connection is absolutely real to the participant. This experience is difficult to explain, for it extends beyond our current linear concepts of reality.
In all our lives there are pivotal moments that change our destiny. Our challenge is to face these moments and conquer our fears. Your discovery of out-of-body exploration may be one of these pivotal times. Your decision to explore beyond your physical boundaries may be a decision that changes your entire life. I can only say that it’s definitely been a turning point in my life, and I thank God that I faced my fears and ventured forward. One thing that I have learned is that all fears are an illusion. Each of us is an immortal being possessing unlimited potential. Our true inner self cannot be harmed, nor can it die.
PANIC ATTACKS During the early stages of an out-of-body exploration, some people report an intense rush of fear similar to a panic attack.
Generally, this is caused by fear of the unknown and the initial physiological surprise of actually separating from your physical body. Panic attacks are often triggered by the unusual vibrations and sounds that sometimes accompany the shift of your awareness from the dense molecular body to your higher-energy counterpart. When first experienced, these vibrations and sounds can be startling, so it’s important to remember that they are a natural part of out-of-body exploration. Many times, your recognition and understanding of these unusual sounds and vibrations are sufficient to eliminate or reduce any anxiety that may arise.
If panic attacks are a recurring problem, a simple soft affirmation may help. At the first sign of anxiety, repeat in your mind, “I am safe and secure” or “I am protected.” Continue to repeat your affirmation until the fear subsides. Then follow the regular instructions by directing yourself away from your physical body—for example, “I move to the front door.” It’s commonly reported that after complete separation from the physical body is achieved, the initial anxiety disappears. Keep in mind that out-of-body experiences are a natural transfer of consciousness—there is simply nothing to fear. This fact is verified daily by the thousands of people who have out-of-body experiences. Generally, panic attacks cease to be a problem after you have had a successful experience. At that point, you know for yourself that there is nothing to fear.
FEAR-REDUCTION TECHNIQUE If fear continues to be a recurring issue, this technique will be helpful.
1. Identify the fear. Attempt to identify the nature of your fear. For example, are you afraid of the unknown? Of rapid change? Of the possibility of becoming lost? Your recognition of your fear is an excellent indicator of progress.
2. Use the fear. Fear is a form of energy. It increases your respiration, strength, and ability to concentrate. It’s nature’s energy boost, designed to enhance your capacity to deal with potential obstacles or challenges. When you feel fear, attempt to use it to your advantage. Use the energy generated by fear to increase your concentration and desire to achieve your personal goal of out-of-body exploration.
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