Second Dream Pathway: Lucid Dreams

Lucid dreams are ones in which the dreamer becomes aware that they are dreaming while still in the dream. The value of becoming lucid is that one can discover while in the dream what it is that the dream wants them to know. The dreamer can communicate with the symbols and simply ask them what message they have, or confront a frightening character that is threatening in some way.

By interacting with a symbol from the awareness that they are dreaming, a lot of work can be done on the spot, saving time and effort later in the waking state. Since the dreamstate is an actual place in consciousness, one of many actually, one can converse, plan, make choices, change one’s mind about the course of events, or whatever else might be appropriate in the particular situation the dreamer finds him or herself.

The confronting of a threatening symbol often results in the symbol suddenly morphing into something else entirely such as a frightened child, the dreamer themselves, a kitten, or some other equally harmless persona that stammers out a plea for the dreamer to pay attention to them, help them, or in some way come to peace with some aspect of their lives. Just as in working with a dream after awakening, the characters in the dream have meaning and value, the difference in being aware inside the dream is that the "symbols" can talk to you.

Becoming lucid is quite easy for some dreamers. A simple desire to do so is all it takes and soon they are reporting lucid dreams. For others it takes some time and experimentation with various self-suggestions and techniques, similar to those given for remembering dreams.

Often the first experience or two of becoming aware of dreaming while still dreaming will so surprise the dreamer that they will awaken immediately. If this happens, then a plan can be made for remaining in the dream the next time. Such actions as looking at ones hands until one remembers that the goal is to stay in the dream, or sitting down to meditate, are good stabilizers. Find whatever pleases you and is easy to accomplish. Once one is proficient in staying in the dream, then the interacting with the symbols can begin. Just like in the waking state, being conscious and aware in the dreamstate can enrich ones experience, leading to growth and the realizing of one’s greater potential, rather than continuing to make the same choices and thus the same mistakes repeatedly.

There is no limit to the richness and variety of lucid experiences. And remember, if in doubt, waking up is still an easy option.

Note: Although these articles can help you a great deal, many of the concepts are best learned in person from Julia herself. If you are interested in a workshop, class, or an individual session, please contact Julia!

Do you have a dream you would like some help interpreting? Call Julia and she will give you analysis or just a nudge in the right direction. Read on for more information!

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Note: for more information on dream symbols, see Symbolic Dreams.

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