- Recalling Dreams for Dream Interpretation - Krystn Palmer Photography
Some dreams, such as nightmares, are easy to remember. Other dreams are more elusive – a person wakes up knowing that he/she just had a dream, but can’t recall any of it. Some people claim they do not dream at all. But with consistent practice, anyone can kick-start the process of dream recall. It is a matter of training the dreamer to remember the dreams.
Tools Required for Dream Recall
Some tools necessary for dream work include a notebook or dream journal, pen and flashlight within easy reach of the bed. The flashlight helps one to see what is being written without disturbing anyone else who might be in the room trying to sleep. A digital recorder may be used to record dreams instead of a notebook, but the noise of speaking into the recorder may disrupt another person's sleep.
When turning in for the night, it is important to set the intention to remember any dreams. If one works with guides or angels, it is possible to ask for their help in having dreams during the night and to remember those dreams. One can also state the intention to dream by saying an affirmation, such as “Tonight I will dream and I will remember my dreams.”
Dreams dissipate quickly and one good way to retain a memory involves writing about the dream immediately upon awakening. This is why it is important to keep the dream tools within easy reach of the bed. Sometimes, while one dream is being recorded, other dreams or further details about the dream will be recalled.
Goals for Recalling Dreams
Initially, the goal will be to simply remember dreams. As one becomes experienced at dream recall, one can begin to set secondary goals for dream time. When stating the affirmation to have and remember dreams, it is possible to include a question to be answered or one may request specific guidance on a problem that requires resolution. Use dreams as tools to connect to the higher self and take advantage of the messages contained within them.
Sometimes when dreaming, the dreamer may become conscious of the fact that he/she is having a dream experience. When this happens, there is an opportunity for the dreamer to influence the course of the dream. This is referred to as “Lucid Dreaming”.
Some people are quite proficient at this, but for others, it takes practice, as most people will wake from their dream when they realize that they are dreaming. Having the ability to lucidly dream is particularly helpful when one is having an unpleasant dream. A person can quickly change the dream from bad to good when he/she is able to manipulate the dream.
Dream Dictionaries and Dream Interpretation Books
There are books designed to help one interpret the symbols and messages that are received from dreams, but they should only be used as a guide. Sometimes the interpretation is one that is personal and specific to the dreamer; the personal meaning may vary dramatically when compared to the traditional interpretation or symbolism of a particular dream.
Some dream interpretation handbooks provide methodologies for interpreting dreams, thereby guiding the reader toward a deeper understanding of dreams. Many will present the idea of archetypes, a term made famous by Carl Jung. Archetypes refer to representations of different aspects of a person's personality. The Hero is an example of an archetype.
Reviewing the Dream Journal
One should regularly review dreams recorded in the dream journal in order to see if there are any obvious themes. If a person repeatedly dreams that his/her house is flooding, he/she should investigate what this represents, as it is believed that this is the unconscious mind's way of attempting to bring attention to that issue. Some dreams may have been prophetic, but the dreamer may only realize that upon reviewing the dreams after the predicted event has come to pass. Some dreams may even be a glimpse into past lives or events.
Dreams can provide a glimpse into the unconscious, and the effort and practice it takes to recall and record them is often worthwhile. Anyone interested in personal development and growth may wish to consider taking the time to set the intention to remember any dreams, and record the experience immediately after having each dream. Then one can begin to interpret the dream to learn what messages are emanating from the subconscious mind.
Sources:
- Andrews, Ted. Dream Alchemy: Shaping Our Dreams to Transform Our Lives, St. Paul: Llewellyn Publications, 1991.
- Ball, Pamela. The Illustrated Dream Dictionary: What Dreams Reveal About You and Your Life, London: Arcturus Publishing Limited, 2008.
- Hamilton-Parker, Craig. Remembering and Understanding Your Dreams, New York: Sterling Publishing Co. Inc., 2000.
- Johnson, Robert A. Inner Work: Using Dreams & Active Imagination for Personal Growth, New York: HarperSanFrancisco, 1986.
Val Tobin - Val Tobin is a freelance writer, Isagenix consultant and owner of Serenity Now Gifts & Services in Newmarket, Ontario.
