The conversation around the table seems distant now. From time to time I make an effort to listen to what is being said, but it does not last. A feeling of dullness settles on me; I'm becoming bored. My eyes remain open, my ears still hear the conversation, but now I start thinking of what I will do tomorrow. I consider various options, silently talking to myself; the monologue seemingly going on within my head. Without entirely losing my present experience (I have not actually fallen asleep) my mind superimposes other scenes over that of the assembled company at the table. I am remembering, planning, enjoying a fantasy that is more real and vivid to me than my present experience. But suddenly I am aware of someone leaning across and asking me a question. “I'm sorry,” I say, unable to hide my inattention, “I was miles away”

But where was I? Clearly, I was still in the same physical position; my body had not shifted, but my mind had loosened its connection with the ongoing stream of present experience and was ranging over a terrain of its own, visualizing people and places, some already known to me, some imagined. In my mind I was elsewhere. I know I am this physical body – that's not in doubt; and I have not left the table. Asked where I am, others could point to me without hesitation.