lucid dreams: what are they?
Let’s look at the weird and wonderful world of dreaming. While it’s an essential if confusing part of sleep, what if we told you there’s a possibility you could control your dreams? Lucid dreaming is a phenomenon where the dreamer is fully aware they’re dreaming, meaning they can maybe take the ropes and manipulate the story as they wish.
But what does it mean and how does lucid dreaming affect our sleep quality? Continue reading to find out everything you need to know – maybe preparing you for a dream like no other.
what's lucid dreaming?
Lucid dreaming is one of the most intense dreaming experiences you can have. What you dream about is said to be very vivid and often emotional, leaving you fully aware you're dreaming, and sometimes allowing you to control what happens – like directing your very own film in your mind.
There’s a growing interest in lucid dreaming, with many sleep experts still trying to understand why it happens. Studies have shown that around 50% of people have had at least one lucid dream in their lifetime, and 23% of those who do lucid dream, experience it monthly.
what's the difference between lucid dreams and standard dreams?
There are several differences between lucid and general dreaming. Firstly, you’re not fully aware or in control of your general dreams. Not to mention, lucid dreams are said to be triggered by non-lucid dreams within the REM stage of sleep. Learn more about REM sleep in our article on the power of deep sleep.
what does lucid dreaming mean?
There are many theories behind what lucid dreaming means for someone, whether it showcases that a person is more self-aware or they’re willing to face their fears. In a way, it also allows you to explore your creativity and problem-solving abilities. While every experience is unique, lucid dreaming is the ultimate immersive experience, allowing you to explore your mind and feelings.
how can you encourage a lucid dream?
If you’re keen to experience a lucid dream, there are things you can do to improve your chances. See below for our recommendations.
Get more REM sleep: If you want to experience more REM sleep, you’ll need to enhance the quality of sleep you’re getting. Once achieved, you’ll have a better chance of experiencing lucid dreams, even if you don’t train yourself. Need tips on improving your sleep? We have 10 helpful tips for your best ever night’s sleep.
Dream journal: It’s been said that noting down your dreams will help make them more frequent, and by intensely focusing on them, you may become more aware of when they happen.
Reality checks: By doing things like checking clocks and touching walls, you can distinguish what’s a dream and what isn’t. For instance, within a dream your fingers may go through the wall when you touch it. The more you do this in and out of dreaming, the more likely you’ll have control.
Practise MILD: Mnemonic Induction of Lucid Dreams (MILD) refers to repeating your intentions to yourself. For instance, continuously saying to yourself ‘I will realise I’m dreaming’. This technique relies on your prospective memory, allowing you to remember future events.
WBTB: The Wake Back to Bed (WBTB) theory requires you to briefly wake up during your sleep each night, giving you better chances of recalling your dream. This isn’t recommended every night as it could affect your quality of sleep, but every now and then may help you to delve back into dreamland consciously.
Remember, learning how to lucid dream takes practise, which requires time and patience. But once you have it under control, you’ll be able to reap the rewards.
what are the benefits of lucid dreaming?
Not only is lucid dreaming a fantastic way to tap into your creativity and emotions, but it can benefit you in other ways too.
Stress reduction: By confronting fears, nightmares and even uncomfortable scenarios, you may find that you feel less stressed in your day-to-day as they’ll no longer be heavy on your mind.
Empowerment: By understanding and potentially controlling your dreams, you’ll feel a sense of empowerment.
Enhanced sleep quality: If you’re lucid dreaming, you’re likely in a deep sleep which proves you’re getting quality sleep, essential for your health and wellbeing.
Anxiety management: Studies have shown that lucid dreams have been an effective solution to reducing the symptoms of anxiety and PTSD.
Less nightmares: By taking control of your dreaming state, you may be given the power to stop your nightmares from playing out, or redirect negative events, giving you a more positive sleep experience and reducing disruption from nightmares.
how does lucid dreaming impact our sleep?
There are also some downsides to lucid dreaming, which could impact the quality and length of your sleep.
Over-practising: As mentioned above, the risk of forcing or over-practising lucid dreaming through WBTB can lead to disruption of sleep.
Increased wakefulness: By encouraging lucid dreams each night, you may always be conscious during your REM sleep, one of the most important stages in quality sleep.
Don’t worry, it’s still possible to maintain healthy sleep hygiene, with or without lucid dreams involved. For instance, a comfortable sleeping environment is key for maximising your chances of quality sleep. Elements such as a mattress of the right firmness, pillows with your preferred filling and thickness, and snug bedding combined with a cool, dark and quiet environment can all support a restful night’s sleep.
is lucid dreaming dangerous?
Generally speaking, lucid dreaming isn’t dangerous. However, if you often experience or are at risk of experiencing psychosis, you may find it significantly more difficult to distinguish what’s real and what isn’t, even once you’ve woken up.
lucid dreaming & healthy sleep routines
It’s important to remember that gaining quality sleep is much more important than controlling your dreams. Quality sleep is the answer to restoring the mind and body, helping you to concentrate, stay engaged and face daily challenges. Therefore, lucid dreaming should only compliment your usual sleeping schedule, not replace it. Have you experienced lucid dreaming, or do you want to? We hope our guide has answered all of your questions and concerns. If you’re looking for another read, check out our healthy sleep blog collection.
