The Science of Dream Recall: Why We Remember (or Forget) Dreams
Dreams are mysterious and powerful. Unraveling why and how our dreams come back to us is a complex science. Dreams can be chaotic images, stories, and symbols, that can sometimes give us the answers to questions we seek. Other times the dream may be forgotten almost immediately upon waking.
Dreams are incredibly personal, and the way an individual remembers or forgets their dreams is unique to them. Depending on where you are in your life, how much sleep you got the night before, and any particular events that happened that day, can all affect your dream recall.
Dream recall can be a tricky science to study regardless, but if you are struggling to remember your dreams, you are not alone. Here, we look into the science of dream recall, and explore why we remember (or forget) dreams.
The Function of Dreams
Dreams can provide insight and clues to our thoughts, feelings, and worries. Specialized cells in the brain, called REM cells, help to control the body’s sleep cycle. And in turn, to create the space for dreaming at night. In simpler terms, any creative ideas or unusual symbols that you may have seen in your dreams could be evidence of the brain shifting through different thoughts and possible outcomes.
Dreams also help us make sense of our lives. If you’ve ever had a dream about a loved one or a particularly emotional event, it might help you face a difficult situation with courage, and an ability to keep moving forward. Even though some dreams become quickly forgotten, the healing power of these subconscious images can still leave us feeling inspired.
Sharpening Your Recall
As previously mentioned, the dream recall process appears to be deeply linked with the amount of sleep we get during the night. This is why it is suggested that getting enough restful sleep every night is crucial for recalling your dreams. Try to factor in about eight hours of sleep, and don’t forget to factor in any naps you take during the day, too.
Drinking alcohol or consuming caffeine late in the day can also interfere with your dream recall process. The presence of these substances in the body can be disruptive to the mental clarity and clarity of dream recall, so it is important to be mindful of the types of food and beverages you are consuming at night.
Lastly, writing in a dream journal could be beneficial for remembering dreams. Jotting down any seemingly important details you can remember right after you wake up could help to sharpen and focus your recall process. This will make it easier to remember future dreams.
The Benefits of Dreams
- Dreams can be sources of insight and clues to unresolved emotions and thoughts.
- Dreams help make sense of our lives.
- Dreams can provide healing power.
- Dreams can help us stay creative.
- Dreams can be a form of relaxation.
Conclusion
Dreams are a powerful and mysterious force. Even though we may not always remember our dreams, understanding why and how we remember (or forget) them helps us to better understand the unique power of dreaming.