The Rubber Hand Illusion

Moreover, you would think that your brain would at least be able to recognize where your body parts are and how they feel. Unfortunately, there is a method called the Rubber Hand Illusion that you can use to make it stop trying to do that.

This trick may be performed at home if you'd like and is as easy as it is difficult. You'll need a fake hand of some sort, and all it takes is a rubber glove that has been blown up to work. Your hand is hidden from view in a box or behind cardboard, resting on a table with your right forearm. Line up the hand with your shoulder and extend it in front of you. To further complete the illusion, you might cover it with a cloth below the wrist. Your second hand can be resting beneath the desk.

Have someone sit across from you and simultaneously stroke the rubber hand and your hidden hand with two paintbrushes. Keep your eyes on the pretend hand. When the stimulation is timed and synchronized correctly, most people start to mistake the phony hand for their own. Your brain will truly react as though your real hand is about to be stabbed when the rubber hand is threatened, such as with a knife or needle.