Recently, scientists may have found a plausible biological explanation for the collection of phenomena known popularly as "Near Death Experiences (NDE)." According to the study, people who have died and experienced the common elements associated with near death experiences like white light, a tunnel, floating above their body are actually dreaming.

"I see it as an activation of certain brain regions that are also active during the dream state," explains Dr. Kevin R. Nelson of the University of Kentucky in Louisville, in a prepared statement for a study just published in Neurology.

A recent San Antonio Eyewitness news story reports that researchers at the University of North Texas are exploring the near death experience (NDE) and its unique perspective on consciouness, “whether it’s real, whether it’s in the mind, or whether it matters.” An extended report is also featured on video.