Experts say we have multiple dreams every night, but we rarely, if ever, remember them. Other than fleeting scenes here and there that may stay with us, most of our nighttime imagery is lost as soon as the alarm clock goes off.

Scientifically, dream recall is a pretty murky area. There are no medically proven techniques that enhance dream recall, nor any research to indicate that people who recall their dreams are better off than people who don't. Dream recall is a purely personal desire. That said, there are groups and organizations dedicated to helping people achieve this desire, as well as online forums where participants can share ideas and experiences.

Here are some popular dream-recall techniques:

Keep a dream journal.

Dream-recall practitioners say writing down your dreams is absolutely key to increasing your recall of them. The act of putting your dreams down on paper allows you to reread the previous day's dreams, which will help you connect with your "dream memory." It will also help you look for signs in your dreams that can be tied to events in your daily life.

Ditch the alarm clock.

Some people find that the noise interrupts their dream recall. A more natural method of awakening is auto-suggestion, in which you tell yourself you will wake up when you need to without an alarm clock. Admittedly, this takes practice. You may want to have a backup alarm at first.

Stay still.

As soon as you awaken, shut your eyes again (or keep them closed, if they haven't opened) and lie motionless for several minutes as you focus on as many images or feelings as you can recall from the night before. Then write them down in your dream journal as soon as possible.

Consider your diet.

Dream-recall devotees say that certain foods eaten about a half-hour before bedtime may aid recall. This includes bananas, pickles, dairy products, lettuce, and fresh fruit juice. Vitamin B6 is also a popular supplement, but please check with your doctor as too much B6 can have serious side effects.

 


 

Sources:

The Lucid Dreamers Community
http://www.ld4all.com

The Dreams Foundation
http://www.dreams.ca/recall.htm