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November 1999

When people know they are dreaming

By Tracy Chan

Lucid dreaming needs motivation and effort.

"The definition of lucidity is simply dreaming while being conscious of the fact that you are dreaming, which usually makes a certain degree of control possible," according to Prof. Stephen LaBerge of Stanford University.

Thus, Prof. Chan Tin-cheung of the Chinese University says lucid dreams are self-conscious and self-controllable.

Prof. LaBerge has conducted lots of research on lucid dreaming.

An experience in a workshop by a Tibetan Buddhist at Esalen Institute inspired him to study this topic.

He established the Lucidity Institute, which aims to promote lucid dreaming and provide information on lucid dreaming.

Lucid dreams usually begin when something unrealistic happens, letting sleepers realize that a dream is occurring.

With reference to the research conducted by Prof. LaBerge and his colleagues, about 10 percent of lucid dreams are the result of returning to REM sleep directly from an awakening with unbroken reflective consciousness.

Few individuals may have an innate talent for achieving lucidity, so most people need to develop the necessary skills for lucid dreaming.

At the Lucidity Institute, lots of materials on training are provided.

The most important thing for beginners of lucid dreaming is recalling dreams correctly when they wake up.

They are advised to jot down notes every time when they can remember the content of a dream.

Another useful technique for beginners is identifying "dream signs", which means something that would be impossible to happen in reality.

When the sleepers see these "dream signs", such as having wings on their backs, they can be aware of dreaming. It helps begin lucidity.

There is a close relationship between morning naps and lucid dreaming.

"Being at rest is probably better for lucid dreaming," Prof. LaBerge explained.

Timing and wakefulness during the sleep are the hints for differing lucidity from morning naps.

There are many reasons for practicing lucid dreaming.

When people are having lucid dreams, there is no limit for wild adventure and fantasy fulfillment.

Owing to this freedom, lucid dreaming provides an outlet for unlimited fantasy and delight that cannot be found in reality.

Lucid dreaming can also be used as a therapy for nightmares.

When people realize a nightmare is a dream and does no harm them, they have the courage to face their dreams instead of escaping from fear and terror.

People can also exert their imagination for the rehearsal of a public speech.

Lucid dreaming can act as a vivid situation and provide a chance for more practices in the dream for people to overcome stage fright.

Furthermore, it can also be applied as a physical healing to alleviate pain.

According to the Lucidity Institute, applications include the practice of physical skills by stroke and spinal cord injury patients to encourage recovery of neuromuscular function, and enjoyment of satisfaction by people with lower body sensory loss.

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