How to Have a Lucid Dream

Most people have had them at least once in there life. Lucid dreaming is dreaming while knowing that you are dreaming. When I was younger, I used to have them all the time. Now, it takes dedication and effort. Once you have the hang of it, you will have a blast in your own world of fantasy. Below are steps to follow to increase your chances of gaining lucidity in your dreams.

1. Keep a dream journal. This is the most important step in establishing a foundation for lucid dreaming. Keep it by your bed with a pen/pencil and write in it immediately after waking up if you remember your dream. Most of us remember dreams right after waking but tend to forget them as we start our day. Writing in your journal will train your brain to concentrate on your dreams.

2. Do a reality test. Set aside several times a day to do a reality test. The most common exercise is to read a page in a book. Then look away and read it again. In a dream, the words will not be the same and change. Sometimes the words will not make sense and may look all jumbled. If this is happening, then you are dreaming! If not, you, of course, are awake. Remember to do this exercise at least once a day. Your brain will get used to this habit and remind you in dreams. And when you realize you are dreaming, you are in a state of lucidity.

3. Tell yourself you will remember your dreams. Telling yourself to remember your dreams is a powerful way of telling your brain your intentions. Just say to yourself before drifting off to sleep that you will remember your dreams and eventually your subconscious will remind you while you while you are actually in the state of dreaming.

4. Imagine that your surroundings are a dream. When you are awake, say to yourself, "I may not be dreaming now, but if I were, what would it be like?" Then imagine that you are dreaming and hold on to that feeling. Then visualize yourself enjoying an activity you would like to do....flying, seeing the world, being famous. Your desires will soon leak over to your subconscious and show up in your dreams. This may trigger you to realize you are dreaming.

Follow these easy steps and you too can have lucid dreams. Lucid dreaming can open up a world of possibilities only limited to your imagination. It is your dream and you have the freedom to create any world you want. There will be no social or physical consequences for your actions. Have fun!