Dr. Pankaj B Borade, a psychiatrist at Ruby Hall Clinic, explains that while lucid dreaming can improve through practice, it often occurs spontaneously.
Lucid dreaming is a fascinating experience within the realm of dreams, wherein you become aware that you are in a dream and can actively influence its course. For some, it feels akin to navigating a video game, granting complete control over the dream’s setting and characters. Others liken it to an ultra-realistic version of reality, where sensations are intensified and everything seems vivid.
Dr. Pankaj B Borade, a psychiatrist at Ruby Hall Clinic, suggests that while practice can enhance lucid dreaming, it often occurs spontaneously. “It resembles real life, evoking feelings of excitement and empowerment during your dream adventures.”
It’s worth noting that lucid dreams are relatively common, with an estimated 50-55% of people experiencing them at least once in their lifetime, according to Dr. Parth Nagda, a psychiatry consultant at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital. However, inducing and sustaining them can be challenging.
But why venture into lucid dreaming? Dr. Borade explains that it provides an opportunity for creativity, the conquering of fears and phobias, and the chance to embark on thrilling dream adventures. It’s not risky, as long as you maintain a healthy sleep balance.
Dr. Nagda points out that lucid dreaming has demonstrated benefits for individuals dealing with Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It can also improve problem-solving skills, enhance self-awareness, promote personal growth, and boost learning and memory.
So, how can you practice lucid dreaming? Dr. Nagda outlines some steps to help you begin:
1. Dream journal: As soon as you wake up, document your dreams in detail to enhance dream recall.
2. Set intentions: Prior to bedtime, affirm your desire to experience lucid dreams through visualization and mantra repetition, such as “I will have a lucid dream tonight.”
3. Time it right: Lucid dreams frequently occur during the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stage of sleep. Setting an alarm to wake you up during the middle of the REM cycle can improve your chances.
Are there any side effects to lucid dreaming?
Yes, it comes with some potential side effects like disrupted sleep patterns, difficulty distinguishing between dreams and reality, and instances of sleep paralysis, which can be unsettling. Lucid dreaming might occasionally lead to nightmares or distressing dreams and could provoke anxiety or panic attacks in individuals already susceptible to such conditions, cautions Dr. Nagda.