Exploring the Nature of Exceptional Human Experiences

Abstract

Exceptional human experiences (EHEs) are studied particularly for their meanings and their transformational potential in the lives of the experiencers (Palmer & Hastings, 2013). This chapter investigates EHE narratives and theoretical aspects while exploring practical implications. It covers various EHE phenomena, including unitive, channeling, out-of-body, near-death, past life recall, afterlife encounter, nature-related, and magick experiences. Theoretical aspects examined include the EHE process, disclosure's role, the "Broaden and Build" Theory of Positive Emotion, Need-Related Theory of EHEs, and Transpersonal Theory of Participatory Events. Relevant research findings are highlighted addressing spirituality, well-being, social relevance, triggers, concomitants, aftereffects, disclosure's correlation with well-being, and the "Broaden and Build" effect of EHEs on individuals. Practical implications are explored with regard to how individuals integrate EHEs into life and work, impacting overall existence, and the process of meaning-making, with the goal of fostering a deeper appreciation for the multifaceted dimensions of EHEs to individuals, researchers, while pointing toward promising future directions for further exploration within the field of transpersonal psychology.