When people are seeking spiritual information, and they do not feel they can connect on their own spiritually within their own being, they often will seek out a medium or "channel."Traditional channeling, which some call "trance channeling," is contact between a human being on earth and a person or "entity" from the spirit world. Information is then communicated through the human being called a "channel" from another level of consciousness. In essence, the entity enters the mind of the channeler, and speaks through him or her. The entity then offers advice and counsel to the person seeking information.
What happens at a channeling session? The channel sits before the one seeking information or even a large audience. First, taking a few deep breaths or meditating, the channel attempts to achieve a semi-conscious state called a "trance." In this neutral state of consciousness, the channel’s mind is now open to his or her "spirit guide."
Usually, the channel becomes filled with a different personality, as he or she becomes tuned into the spirit guide's frequency. The entity now speaks through the human channel, who becomes its physical vehicle for communicating to the listeners. The spirit often carries on a dialogue with the audience, such as answering questions on a variety of subjects.
Channels, as well as those who listen to their messages, often feel they must change their lives to follow the advice received from the entity. What happens when we die? Are we truly lifeless and dead, or do our lives continue on in spirit? If our lives continue on, is it then possible for us to communicate with those who have "crossed over" to the other side? Can we contact dead friends, relatives and even famous people from throughout history?
Most civilizations have some form of belief in an afterlife. The idea of communication with the dead is popular still today.