How to have lucid dreams! Simple techniques to induce the exhilarating sleep phenomenon of lucid dreaming.
The ability to consciously direct and engage in lucid dreams is not a modern phenomenon. As early as the eighth century, Tibetan Buddhists managed to maintain full waking consciousness while in the dream state via a form of yoga.
However, it is only recently that relatively simple induction methods have become available, enabling anyone to lucid dream at any stage in their life. While these do require some patience and determination, they require much less commitment than manually attaining deeper states of consciousness like the Buddhists of the past.
Dream Recall
First, it is important to practise remembering dreams. Better dream recall increases awareness of dreams in general, and helps to remember the important moments of lucidity.
The best way to achieve this is to keep a dream diary or journal and write down a brief outline of any dreams immediately upon waking. It is often easier to remember a dream by staying still and not talking as this limits the number of motor neurons firing in the brain.
Lucid Dream Induction Techniques
Frequently practice one or more of the following techniques over the course of a month for the best chance of success.
Mnemonic Induction of Lucid Dreams (MILD) – is a popular technique developed by lucidity expert Dr Stephen LaBerge. It enables the dreamer to induce a lucid dream at will by setting an intention in their mind while falling asleep, such as: “Next time I am dreaming I will become lucid.”
Another popular MILD method is to look for dream signs to trigger a reality check. For instance, LaBerge recommends asking the question: “Is this a dream?” every time a trigger point is encountered during the waking day. The trigger can be anything from opening a door to taking a drink or making a phone call.
Wake Back To Bed (WBTB) – is another simple method which involves going to sleep tired and setting an alarm for five hours later. Spend the next hour awake and focus all intentions on lucid dreaming. On falling asleep, perform the MILD intention method. This exploits the best REM cycle of the night, creating lengthy periods of lucidity.
Cycle Adjustment Technique (CAT) – involves changing the sleep cycle to encourage awareness during the deeper periods of REM sleep. On alternating days, set an alarm for 90 minutes before the usual waking time. On normal days, the mind will naturally become more alert closer to waking, and this will occur during the later REM cycles.
Wake Initiated Lucid Dreams (WILD) – occur when a person descends from a normal waking state into a dream state with no apparent lapse in consciousness. The key to this technique is recognising the hypnagogic state, where the mind is very calm and relaxed, and colourful light shows play under closed eyelids. Staying aware during the hypnagogic state eventually leads to a lucid dream state.
Technical Devices – such as the Nova Dreamer and REM Dreamer exploit the natural phenomenon of incorporating external stimuli into a dream. The eye mask automatically detects when the eyeballs begin their Rapid Eye Movement (REM). The device then emits flashing lights and sounds which can be sensed within the dream. The dreamer is then prompted to check their reality.
Further Reading
An Introduction to Lucid Dreaming by Rebecca Turner
How to Prolong Lucid Dreams by Rebecca Turner
Exploring the World of Lucid Dreaming by Dr Stephen LaBerge & Howard Rheingold
