How to Remember Dreams

We spend about 25 percent of our sleep time dreaming. But dreams all too often disappear as soon as we awaken, and we can't remember a thing.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Journal
• Cassette Tape Recorders
• Herbal Teas
• Bubble Baths
• Music For Zen Meditation
• Relaxing CDs

1. Relax before bed. Take a hot bath with aromatherapy soaps, drink herbal tea, listen to meditation tapes - whatever works best for you.

2. Think about and write down important things on your mind. Write down subjects you also would like to dream about.

3. Keep those items in mind when you get into bed but don't concentrate too hard. That might keep you awake.

4. Tell yourself that you will remember your dream. Repeat "I will remember my dream" several times to yourself as you drift off to sleep.

5. Wake up naturally, if possible, without an alarm clock. Try not to move until you can recall your dream from the night before.

6. Record your dream before you get out of bed. Keep a journal and pen or tape recorder by your bedside for easy access.

Tips & Warnings

• If you awaken in the middle of the night, write down your dream. You won't remember it by morning.

• Avoid alcohol before you go to bed. It reduces your REM sleep time, the phase of sleep when you dream.

• Get adequate sleep. You sleep very deeply when you're overtired; that makes remembering dreams less likely.

• Take vitamin B-6 (50-200mg) about a half hour before you go to sleep. Your dreams will become more vivid, colorful and lucid. Also melatonin can produce more intense and meaningful dreams.