The experience you are describing is often referred to as an "out-of-body experience" (OBE) or "self-observation." During an OBE, a person feels as if their consciousness has separated from their physical body, allowing them to view themselves and their surroundings from an external perspective. In this state, individuals may feel like they are floating above their body or observing themselves from a different vantage point.
Out-of-body experiences are a topic of interest in various fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and spirituality. They can occur spontaneously, often during moments of intense stress, trauma, or certain altered states of consciousness. Some people also claim to induce OBEs through meditation, lucid dreaming, or other practices.
It's essential to recognize that the nature and interpretation of these experiences can vary significantly from person to person. Some individuals who report OBEs believe them to be genuine journeys of the consciousness outside the body, while others view them as a product of the mind, perhaps related to dissociative states or hallucinations.
From a scientific standpoint, the mechanisms and underlying causes of OBEs are not yet fully understood. Some researchers speculate that they might be related to changes in brain activity and the integration of sensory information, while others propose psychological or spiritual explanations.
Whether OBEs represent an external perspective or a unique internal experience is still a subject of ongoing investigation and debate. As with any subjective experience, individual interpretations can be influenced by cultural, religious, or personal beliefs.
If you are interested in exploring such experiences or have concerns about your own perceptions, it's essential to approach the topic with an open mind and seek information from reputable sources. Additionally, discussing your experiences with a mental health professional or expert in the field of consciousness and altered states can provide valuable insights and support.