Dream Recall: Learn How to Remember Your Dreams

Many people believe that they don't dream, but that simply isn't the case. Studies have proven that everyone dreams several times a night. Dreams take place during the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) portion of the sleep cycle. Each dream period is consecutively longer, and they take place about every ninety minutes.

While it isn't possible to remember every aspect of every dream period, there are techniques that can aid in dream recall. Why would anyone want to remember their dreams? Dream recall is instramental in recognizing lucid dreams (dreams in which you are aware you are dreaming) and also in developing dream manipulation skills. Dream manipulation is a very important skill for someone that is plagued with nightmares, and the first step is becoming familiar with your own dreams.

The first step in dream recall is to get a good night's sleep. As sleep progresses, dreams get longer and closer together. A good night's sleep also ensures that it will be more manageable to record your dreams after they happen. It's important to begin keeping a dream journal. Try to wake up after having your dreams and write down as much as you can before you forget, even if it's just a snippet. If you are a deep sleeper, then try setting an alarm clock. Because the REM cycle occurs about every ninety minutes, try setting your alarm for ninety minute intervals from the time you go to bed.

Another way to increase dream recall is to tell yourself, when you are drifting off to sleep, that you want to wake up after your dream and remember it. You can also specify that you wish to wakeup and remember certain types of dreams or characteristics.

If you find that you wake up and quickly forget your dreams, try another technique before writing in your dream journal. Before you move, before you even open your eyes, try to recall your dream. Visualize as much as possible before you lose it. Then try to write as much as possible in your journal. Even memories as small as a face or an emotion can be important. Read through your journal every night before you go to bed. Try to notice similarities between your dreams, things that might trigger dream memories later.