Only a Figment of Imagination?

How can we prove the existence of something if we cannot see, test, or experience it ourselves. Outside of the lucid dreaming community, scrutiny surrounds the legitimacy of the practice and many people claim it simply does not exist. For some, the lack of success in regards to lucid dreaming leads them to believe it cannot be accomplished, and that it is merely fabricated to gain attention. I may not be able to prove that lucid dreaming exists, but I can provide some reassuring facts that justify trying to learn the ability.

Even if someone never achieves the ability to lucid dream, practicing to gain the capability still reaps several benefits. For example, the repetitive nature of trying to lucid dream teaches discipline and encourages memory retention. Additionally, considering the meaning behind dreams (even those that are not lucid) can be beneficial for psychological and emotional improvement. Dreams provide a window into our subconscious stresses, and the focus on such dreams can lead to increased recognition of how to fix real life issues.

Furthermore, practicing lucid dreaming involves the imagination. Even before lucid dreaming is accomplished, it is natural to imagine what the experience is like and how someone would spend that extra time. This continued use of one's imagination can also improve creativity and problem solving skills.

Lastly, continued belief that someone can achieve a lucid dreaming state can help build self confidence and resilience. Believing in something you can't see may seem illogical to some people, but in a greater sense it allows for self-reflection. If someone chooses to disregard lucid dreaming as a myth, it harms no one. They would only be missing out on the opportunity to experience a new situation in which they could have ultimate power with no repercussions.

In my experience, I never struggled with the legitimacy of lucid dreaming because I discovered it on accident before I began any research. On the other hand, I can see why people have doubts. Many argue that lucid dreaming is simply made up by other people, and in a sense this is true. The dreams themselves still come from individuals' brains while they sleep; however, they retain the power to control their dream once they realize they are sleeping. Most people have had at least one dream in their life where they realize they are dreaming. Lucid dreams only require one more step: to remain asleep and realize you can do whatever you want.

In addition, many testimonies are available that advocate for the practice of lucid dreaming. Searching for "lucid dreaming experiences" on the internet yields countless articles and journals detailing the activity. With so many people claiming they can lucid dream, doesn't that add some sort of legitimacy? I truly believe anyone can learn to lucid dream, with a little practice, and that the benefits of learning outweigh the costs. Next week, I plan to show how dreams play a large role in pop culture today and I will highlight a few specific artifacts that rely on dreams to relay bigger messages.

Image Credits (in order of appearance):

Image provided by Ibai

Image provided by Marie-Chantale Turgeon