The overview effect is a phenomenon that astronauts experience when they see the Earth from space for the first time. This experience changes their lives permanently. The distance to Earth opens up a meta-perspective, not only on the planet, but also on themselves. No wonder, then, that US astronaut Edgar Mitchell, after his return from the moon, founded the Institute of Noetic Science, dedicated to the study of extraordinary states of consciousness. What he experienced is called the Overview Effect. Distance changes many things, especially perspective. Boundaries dissolve, and what emerges, according to Mitchell, is: “a great clarity and a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of all life.”
We don’t necessarily have to be transported into Earth’s orbit to experience the Overview Effect. Transpersonal techniques produce a similar effect, or metaperspective. In the Far Eastern traditions, this ability of an expanded spectrum of consciousness is called Inner Observer. When we look at the current state of our planet, humanity collectively would really benefit from an overview effect.
Once we activate the Inner Observer within us, we have the choice to change habitual patterns and destructive behaviour. For example, instead of stuffing food down our throats, we can enjoy it bite by bite. Through observation, thoughts are reduced. Once we have distance from our own thinking, thoughts no longer have the power to captivate us. If you stay in the observer for a longer time, you gain more clarity because you take a step back, into the orbit of your automatisms.
The overview effect creates humour. It makes it easier for us to recognise the absurdity of existence. Pausing arises of its own accord and leads to becoming aware of oneself again. A deep breath always helps. The breath reconnects us with the body; it helps us to accept what is and to let go of what we don’t want when we exhale.
One’s own hecticness subsides the more one observes. The quality that then arises is called natural mindfulness. Why does more clarity come from mindfulness? The energy that usually flows into automatic thinking is now available to take on a broader perspective. With distance, many things look different. As thoughts gradually dissolve, the clarity of the Overview Effect emerges. Now you perceive again the song of the blackbirds in the morning, the sun rays returning in spring and the smell of fresh bread. The more often you observe, the more you discover the depth dimension of being and life is reflected full of beauty in your consciousness.