Tips for Maintaining a Dream Journal

Your dream journal should be a small notebook, preferably wire-bound, that is set beside your bed at night along with a pen or pencil. You should always record the date and time you lay down to sleep. When you awaken in mid-dream you can write down the time you woke up as well as any elements of the dream that you can remember. A flashlight could be used in place of turning on the light if you have problems remembering your dreams. The lack of light will keep the subconscious in a dreamy state and make it possible to return to sleep fairly quick. It is a good idea to write down the dreams you have had the night before when you sit up in bed. Getting up before recording your dream sometimes causes the thoughts to disappear only to be remembered by triggering the memory later unexpectedly in your waking life.

It is important to record every element of the dream that you can remember. Any recurring themes or objects. Is it in color? Where does the dream take place? Or does it keep switching locations/scenarios? Are you alone in the dream? How many other people are in your dream? Are they male or female? Old or young? Family, friend or stranger? What is their mood? How do they act toward you? How do you feel when you enter the dream? Do you feel happy? Afraid? Stressed out? Embarrassed? And if you are able to describe your emotions try to tell why you think you felt that way. I have found that if I cannot remember a dream I think about another dream that i do remember. That will usually trigger some memory of the previous dream. If this doesn't`t work for you don`t think about it too hard, go think about and do something else. Trying too hard will make the memory more elusive.

It is also very important to record any numbers, letters, colors, smells, single items or anything out of place. These dream symbols will have a special meaning to you. If there is a thought lingering in your head when you enter or leave the dream that is very important to take note of as well. After each dream is written down, list the most important symbols. In a few weeks you will be able to look at your dream journal and notice similar elements. Writing down all the feelings associated with the dream will help you to discover the meaning that is true to you. When you begin to make a habit out of paying attention to the elements and symbols in your dreams, lucid dreaming will come much easier for you.