Keith Hearne, sleep researcher and author of The Dream Machine, explains how to make lucid dreams - in which you are aware of your state and can control what happens - a reality.
Read all about it
"You have to establish in your mind that the concept exists - that you can alter dreams with willpower," says Hearne. Research others' experiences, but don't be disheartened if the skill doesn't come immediately. "Some people just hear about being able to control dreams, and they find that they can - it took me until 18 months into my research."
Turn off, tune in
As you drift off at night, tell yourself you want lucid dreams and reinforce this with imagery or a statement. "Think about what you want to see," says Hearne. "You can create a self-hypnosis script to read before you sleep to inform your subconscious." If you want to solve a problem, this is the time to consider the conundrum.
Spot the difference
Know the signs of a lucid dream as it happens. "What normally occurs in a dream to make it lucid is that you recognise there is something unusual," says Hearne. "There could be a zebra in your bath that you will think is odd, rather than accepting or ignoring it. Instead, switch on your critical faculties and realise that you must be dreaming."
Keep calm and carry on
"Even in a lucid dream you can't really make something appear out of nothing," Hearne points out. "Gradually manipulate the scene, and try to remain an observer. Think of it as like a giant video game." And steer clear of anything too thrilling. "Some people have reported sexual situations that are too exciting and that have woken them up."
Make a record
Keep a notepad by your bed so you can record your dreams as soon as you wake, to make future adventures easier. "You are more likely to discover the cues that are particular to you to help you become lucid," says Hearne. Record everything you can - feelings, colours, textures. When you spot the cues in a dream, you'll know you're dreaming.
This article was originally published by WIRED UK
