What are lucid dreams?
Lucid dreams are those dreams when you are aware that you are dreaming. You may be able to recognize thoughts and emotions when the dream is happening. Sometimes, you can control the dream by changing people, environment or history. These types of dreams can potentially reduce nightmares and anxiety.
When do they occur?
Clear dreaming, like most dreams, usually occurs during the REM sleep phase, where the brain is extremely active. In a lucid dream, you know you are dreaming and you are aware of what you are experiencing.
About 55 percent of people have experienced one or more lucid dreams in their lifetime. However, frequent lucid dreaming is rare. Only 23% of people have lucid dreams at least once a month.
How to experience lucid dreams
1 - REM sleep: get enough sleep, have healthy sleeping habits, avoid alcohol and caffeine before bed, exercise every day, create a relaxing sleeping environment, etc.
2 - Keep a dream diary: writing your dreams forces you to remember them. This is thought to help the brain become more aware of dreaming.
The benefits of these dreams
1. Reduce nightmares.
2. Reduce anxiety.
3. Increase motor skills.
4. Increase creativity.
Be careful if you have a mental disorder. Striving for a lucid dream poses several risks, including sleep disruptions and detachment from reality. Talk to a sleep therapist or specialist before attempting to experience a lucid dream.
Sources: Healthline, NetDoctor
