Dream Control - Is It Possible?

By David Heoung

The vast majority of people think of dreams as something mysterious which is not within our power to control. Whether we have nightmares or very pleasant dreams, not everyone is aware that it is in fact possible to stop these dreams from being purely random. Through the method called lucid dreaming, dream control is something that anyone can have.

But what is lucid dreaming and how does one do it? What are the benefits of being in the drivers seat for these nocturnal journeys? Keep reading to find out more about the practice of dream control.

What Is Dream Control?

Dream control, using lucid dreaming, means that not only are you fully aware that you are dreaming, but that you're also able to control what happens during the dream. While totally asleep, you realize that what seems to be going on is actually a dream and you are solely in control of the events that play out as well as the final outcome.

Dream control can be a great help to people who suffer from recurring nightmares. The simple, yet powerful technique of lucid dreaming can enable these people to get a full nights sleep.

Common Techniques For Inducing Lucid Dreaming

A rather effective method known for achieving lucid dreaming involves the use of binaural audio, which entails listening to two different frequencies at the same time in order to synchronize the brain waves, bringing about a deep sense of relaxation, as well as a state in which lucid dreaming is possible known as rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.

Prior to the advent of binaural audio technology, now available on CDs and DVDS, meditation and self hypnosis were used to bring about dream control. While these methods are indeed effective, it can take a considerable amount of time to become expert at these techniques.

In addition to these approaches to lucid dreaming, many other techniques have been developed over the years by those who are experts in the fields of both science and psychology. But, regardless of the initial method used, the main purpose is basically to train the mind, while asleep, to realize that it is in the midst of a dream.

To do this, we must, of course, begin while we are wide awake, with the key being to remember to do or say something in a dream, which will trigger the recognition necessary within the mind and allow us to then control what happens next.

It's often a simple matter of telling yourself, just before going to sleep, that you will be dreaming soon and in that dream you will remember to do or say something specific, and when that happens, you will instantly realize that it is a dream.

This particular method to dream control is referred to as MILD, or mnemonic induction of lucid dreams, which was discovered by scientist Dr. Stephen LaBerge. With this approach, your brain is then in complete control as to what occurs in the dream, meaning that nothing could or would come of harm to you as it's simply all in the mind and you are only limited by your own imagination.

A dream diary can also help you to get started with lucid dreaming. Immediately after you wake up, write down each and every detail that you remember from your dreams. After doing this for a while, you'll train your mind to remember your dreams; this is the first step to dream control and soon you'll start having lucid dreams!

You can beat back those nightmares, go anywhere, do anything and talk to anyone you want in these dreams. There are no limits except for your imagination to your dreams once you have mastered the techniques of dream control.

As with anything else, though there can be too much of a good thing. According to psychologists and other experts, dreaming is a way for our subconscious minds communicate important messages to us. So while lucid dreaming is indeed an incredible experience, you'll also want to have natural dreams; so remember to take some time off from lucid dreaming now and again.

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