This Cold War-Era Meditation Leads to Out-Of-Body Experiences

The Trend: A decades-old meditation system originally developed for Cold-War era intelligence use is suddenly everywhere. The program, called the Gateway Voyage (and its audio set known as the Gateway Tapes), uses guided meditations and binaural-beat technology to help participants reach altered “focus states” of consciousness, from deep relaxation to reported out-of-body experiences. Interest has surged as people seek non-chemical routes to transcendence and stress relief, with virtual retreats and at-home practices drawing growing audiences.

What People Are Saying: Some participants describe the practice as life-changing, bringing clarity and emotional release, or even encounters with a “higher self.” Others report it feeling disorienting or intense, leaving them mentally adrift after long sessions. Wired notes the odd mix of science, spirituality, and CIA history that gives the program an element of mystique. 

What to Know: Founded by radio executive Robert Monroe, the Monroe Institute built its techniques on “Hemi-Sync,” a sound technology meant to synchronize the brain’s hemispheres. The science behind it remains debated, but no one can deny the growing intersection between wellness and spirituality.