A near-death experience (NDE) is a profound and transformative occurrence that typically takes place during intense situations or critical moments of a life-threatening nature. It refers to an extraordinary episode wherein an individual, facing imminent demise due to a medical emergency, accident, or other traumatic events, reports a series of extraordinary psychological and/or physiological phenomena. These phenomena include but are not limited to the sensation of being detached from the physical body, floating or hovering above it, tunnel vision, a sense of peacefulness or euphoria, encounters with deceased loved ones, encounters with a divine or powerful entity known as a "being of light," life review, and profound insights and clarity about the nature of reality and the purpose of existence.
Near-death experiences transcend cultural, religious, and spiritual boundaries, and have been documented across various societies and belief systems. The experiences have been reported by individuals of diverse ages, backgrounds, and belief systems, suggesting that NDEs are a fundamental part of the human experience.
While near-death experiences are often transformative and profoundly positive for individuals, they can also induce fear, confusion, or doubts about one's existence and meaning. The scientific and medical communities continue to explore and research these phenomena, aiming to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying mechanisms and to provide explanations for these profound experiences. NDEs remain a topic of considerable fascination and debate, as they challenge conventional scientific and philosophical frameworks, provoking contemplation on the nature of consciousness, life, and death.
