All known methods of entering the OBE state fall into one of the following three categories:
All of these methods are performed while lying down, with a totally relaxed body and closed eyes.
The easiest method to master is the Indirect Method, when special techniques are performed immediately upon waking up from sleep. Sleep naturally provides the mind with the deep relaxation that is much more difficult to achieve otherwise, making the moment upon waking an opportune time for entering the Phase state.
With the Direct Method, the OBE State is achieved right from an awake state without any noticeable lapses in consciousness. While the most controllable of all methods, it is very difficult to master for most of us.
Lucid Dreaming means acquiring consciousness while dreaming. Once you start practicing the Phase, you begin to experience lucid dreams as a side effect, but there are also special techniques to induce them.
Every Phase practitioner finds their own balance between all of these methods based on individual abilities and preferences. As with everything in life, the best approach is to try as many different methods for entering the Phase as possible.