Lucid dreaming, or waking sleep, is a state in which the sleeper is aware of the fact that he or she is dreaming during the sleep phase. This creates the opportunity to consciously direct and control the dream. The dreamer can thus modify objects, persons and the entire dream scenario at will. Psychologists agree that the ability to lucid dream is a journey into the human unconscious, whereby we can become more aware of our patterns of behaviour and thinking, resulting in an improved quality of life.
There are many techniques for inducing lucid dreaming. According to most experts, the primary method is keeping a dream journal. By recording our dreams, we connect the unconscious and conscious parts of our mind, and by regularly strengthening these connections, we improve our ability to remember dreams, which can ultimately lead to a situation where we actually realize we are dreaming. Other aids include focusing your attention on the topic of lucid dreaming, affirmations, and so-called “dream herbs”—plants that improve the quality of sleep and dreaming, promoting colorful and vivid dreams. Among the best-known plants that induce these abilities is Calea Zacatechichi. Others include, for example, Bobinsana.
« Back to Glossary Index