Lucid dreaming stories and experiences are reported from people of all ages, locations and backgrounds. In a lucid dream, the dreamer becomes conscious that they are in a dream state and may be able to direct the storyline of the dream.
Certain Tibetan and Indian practitioners have utilized the mysterious powers of lucid dreaming for thousands of years. Aristotle wrote on consciousness during dreaming in 350 BC.
Being able to consciously witness and influence dreaming is associated with gaining new insights, deepened spirituality and benefits to both physical and mental health.
According to user reviews, becoming lucid during a dream can be beneficial for mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. It also has benefits for wish fulfillment and can be deeply satisfying for some users.



- Increases acetylcholine activity for vivid dreams
- Promotes REM sleep stage
- Improves memory of dreams
Lucid Dreaming Experiences
Reports of lucid dreaming stories and experiences are growing more common online.
Lucid dreaming has not been extensively studied in clinical environments, but there are numerous websites dedicated to sharing experiences and providing techniques for inducing lucidity.
In one scientific meta-review, data from 35 studies was analyzed for methodology and effectiveness of lucid dreaming induction techniques.
The review concluded that most lucid dreaming studies analyzed were of low methodologic quality. Further, there were no induction techniques that worked with regularity.
However, experienced dreamers do say that meditation, supplements, listening to binaural beats and following a Wake-Back-To-Bed sleep schedule can increase the likelihood of becoming aware during your dreams.
According to some individuals, it is possible to practice and improve your lucid dreaming techniques so that you can gain control over your dreams and be more likely to remember them when you wake up.
How Do Lucid Dreams Occur?
Many people report spontaneously experiencing lucid dreams where they are aware they are dreaming. They feel as though they are consciously participating in the dream.
Many people also report attempting to control the events in their dreams and experiencing things they have always wanted to experience in real life. The majority of lucid dreaming stories and experiences seem to involve the dreamer engaging in either flying or sex.
Other popular lucid dreaming experiences include visiting with lost loved ones, performing feats of incredible strength or bravery, solving complex challenges and stopping recurring nightmares.
Lucid dreaming has clinical implications for ending recurring nightmares. In theory, the dreamer can recognize when she is in the nightmare. She is then able to direct the nightmare in ways that turn it from terrifying to empowering.
While most people feel they have experienced very vivid dreams, few are prepared to harness the dream and attempt to control its direction when it occurs.
The first key to learning to control your lucid dreams is to recognize when you are dreaming. If the dreamer is unaware of the dream, then she cannot act to manipulate its plotline.
Lucid Dreaming and Astral Projection
Science fiction author, David Jay Brown claims to be an avid lucid dreamer. He states that he lucid dreams frequently and that it enlightens his creativity.
Some of his lucid dreaming stories center on very sensuous sexual experiences, fantastic voyages to other worlds and near-death experiences.
Other lucid dreaming reviews tell of the dreamer experiencing out-of-body (astral projection) journeys. Some scientists believe that astral projection is a variant of lucid dreaming.
Those who experience this phenomenon report that the experiences seem very real to them, even after waking. They may travel to other worlds and commune with alien beings, but it seems real to them.
Lucid Dream Inducers
Lucid dreaming testimonials online report various induction techniques and tricks as well. Herbal supplements, pharmaceuticals, illicit drugs, cognitive training and mechanized devices are used in attempts to stimulate lucid dreaming.
Some lucid dreamers claim to benefit from induction devices like the DreamLight; designed by a worldwide lucid dreaming authority (LaBerge). The DreamLight displays light patterns as they dreamer is entering into REM sleep phases, encouraging lucidity during dreams.
Although the DreamLight is now obsolete, various other lucid dream-inducing products are available commercially. Popular lucid dream mask products include the REM-Dreamer, the Remee and the NovaDreamer.
There is also an online app that attempts to identify REM sleep patterns by mattress movements. When REM sleep patterns are detected, the device begins playing soothing musical soundscapes.
Lucid Dreaming and Meditation
Lucid dreaming stories often center around deeply relaxing experiences, like intense meditation.
Meditation, lucid dreaming and other non-normal states of consciousness can increase an individual’s sense of wonder about the world. New realms of consideration and discovery open up.
Many stories about lucid dreaming tell about the dreamer’s journey to deeper spirituality and self-discovery. Some lucid dreamers state that they experience such freedom and clarity during conscious dreaming that it reshapes their entire waking lives.
Lucid Dreaming Side Effects
In rare cases, lucid dreaming experiences involve disturbing or pathological reactions. Some research shows that those who lucid dream frequently can get “burned out” on it.
Some regular lucid dreamers have experienced quasi-psychotic episodes and/or confusion. Some other lucid dreamers have reported intense fear over losing control during conscious dreams.
Conclusions
Lucid dreaming stories and experiences continue to be reported from all types of people, all over the world.
A modern surge of interest in neuroscience and altered states of consciousness has sparked much research into phenomenon of lucid dreaming and its therapeutic potentials.
Lucid dreaming has been clinically implicated as a potential therapy for improving physical rehabilitation via rehearsals of motor imaging during sleep. It is also believed to be a key to better understanding altered states of consciousness and their associated pathologies.
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Article last updated on: July 5th, 2018 by Nootriment