If you've ever had a dream where you could consciously take over the dream and control where you go, or don't go, then you're beginning to have what is called Lucid dreams. That's when you are able to take over and direct what's happening, change what you see, hear and feel while you're in your dream, then consciously decide to change again anytime you so desire. It has to do with how self-aware you are at the time you're dreaming, when your conscious mind can partially wake up, then tell yourself that you're dreaming, become self-aware. Let's take a look at some of the history and uses of Lucid dreaming.
The First Reports Of Dreaming Lucidly Was By Tibetan Monks Over 1000 Years Ago.
The earliest recorded history of humans dreaming lucidly, and actually attempting to expand control, was done by Buddhist monks in Tibet, and it was considered a form of dream yoga. Since then, many different psychologists have studied dreams, and people who have the ability to use heightened consciousness to control their dreams to varying degrees. There are now books that have been written, and courses that a been published, in order to help people gain a better understanding and more control over their dreams.
Do You Have Anything To Fear From Your Dreams?
Hollywood horror movies have touched on many different problems people have had during their dreams that turned out to be true, thus making people wonder in real life, if having dreams that you could control and manipulate, could somehow be dangerous. So far, through hundreds of different studies, no ill effects have been found from any kind of dreaming whatsoever, and all forms of dreams are natural occurrences for different people at different times.
Now That You Know When You're Dreaming, What's Next?
Basically people who study how to control their dreams are doing so in order to have more experiences and enjoyment while sleeping. They basically feel that they are more free to explore their dreamworld by either flying higher or farther anytime they want, like Superman. Another advantage of being in control, is that anytime something that would normally be out-of-control or scary happens in your dream, you can take step back, tell yourself you're dreaming, and move on to a different venue altogether, at any time.
As mentioned on Sleep Proofed, it takes practice to learn how to control your dreams, but it's a worthwhile endeavor if you enjoy dreaming and would like to have more control. There are many resources on the Internet, plus groups of dream adventurers that you can join to find out more about dreaming and being in control. So, put on your best sleep mask and lie down to prepare for your dreams.
