Many people often question what their dreams mean and even why they exist. Unfortunately research in this area is not an exact science, but it does seem that the largest consensus agrees that dreams come from the subconscious, and are often the reflection of our own feelings. However, if you want an exact interpretation of your dreams then that could be a little more difficult to pin down. While we generally tend to dream at night during REM (rapid-eye movement) sleep, we do have several different types of dreams and experience them in different ways. Below are a few examples of the different types of dreams we can have:
Lucid Dream:
Lucid dreaming is when the dreamer is consciously aware of the fact that they are dreaming. Some people claim to be able to enter lucid sleep through meditation and visualization. This is actually a technique that has been used by Tibetan Buddhists for over 1,000 years called Wake Induced Lucid Dreams. For most though, lucidity usually begins in the middle of dreams when the dreamer realizes that the experiences that are occurring are not of physical reality, but rather the creation of a dream. However, such a sudden realization will then likely cause the dreamer to wake up. Others have been able to cultivate the skill of remaining in a lucid dream and becoming an active participant by making decisions in their dreams and influence the dream's outcome without awakening.
Recurring Dream:
Recurring dreams are when you have the same dream many times. It can be several times a month, weekly, or nightly. Usually they are the manifestation of something the dreamer is currently experiencing. Usually once the conflict is resolved the dream will end. A common example of a recurring dream is of one falling, which supposedly indicates feelings of stress and anxiety.
Nightmare:
A nightmare is a disturbing dream that causes you to wake up feeling anxious and frightened. Nightmares may be a response to real life trauma and situations. A nightmare will often cause the dreamer to wake up in a distressed state, leaving them unable to sleep for a considerable period of time afterwards.
Daydream:
Scientific studies have found that the average person daydreams for at least 70 - 120 minutes a day. During this time, you are awake. It is essentially just using our imagination, but it becomes very vivid and real for a short period of time.
In daydreams, the right (creative) brain is dominant and you lose awareness of reality. Deeper worries or concerns may surface, usually by acting themselves out in the daydream. This only serves to reinforce negativity - so next time you are fantasizing about bad situations, turn it around and consciously create a positive outcome.
Also, contrary to popular belief that daydreaming is a sign of laziness or being inattentive, it can also be a sign of creativity since it often leads to new thoughts and ideas.
False Awakening:
Have you ever thought you have woken up and gone about your daily morning routine: getting up, brushing your teeth, eating breakfast and going to work, only to wake up "again" and realize that what just happened was just a dream? That sensation is referred to as a false awakening.
These are just a few examples of the types of dreams we may experience. While most dreams will not have any effect on your day, there are ones such as recurring dreams or nightmares, which may have more of an impact on you. If, however, you find yourself experiencing recurring nightmares on a regular basis you may want to consult with your doctor to ensure there is not any underlying trauma or anxiety.
You may may want to ensure you are getting the best night's sleep possible, a memory foam mattress is designed to help relax your body into a deep relaxed slumber.