Each of us has different bodies. We associate primarily with our physical bodies, but we also have other
subtle energy bodies that surround us. In Astral Travel we transfer our consciousness to one of these other energy bodies and
travel through the Astral realm. We all Astral Travel, wether we do it consciously or not. Anytime we dream at night, it is a form of Astral Travel.
We create and form our reality in the Astral Realm through our thought processes. While the body lies sleeping, our minds are active and
about the other realms exploring and helping us to find answers, have new experiences, etc. while on the Astral Plains. Others choose to
go to the Astral Plains consciously, and access these realms through meditation, visualization etc.
Out of Body Experience (OBE) is the process in which we actually fully leave our physical bodies and wander about the other realms. Many people can do this at will, others
will sometimes spontaneously do this during sleep time. It is widely believed that the consciousness/soul of the person remains attached to the physical body via a Silver cord.
This allows the soul to travel in the realms of spirit for a time before returning full consciousness back to the body.
In Astral travel, visions, etc. there is still a connection to the physical body in most cases. Many people are able to "split" their consciousness between the Astral realms and
the physical body, thereby going into a deep trance but easily able to return to full body consciousness. Those who are completely OOB may not be returned so easily to the physical body as they become
so detached from it that they don't "wake up" when prompted. On the other hand those who split off are usually easily pulled back to physical awareness.
NDE (Near Death Experience) is a form of OBE where many report looking down upon their physical bodies, and seeing others in the room with them etc. They often travel and visit with
others who have crossed before them before returning back to the physical realm to finish their incarnation.