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Better Dreaming and Dream Recall: Helpful Suggestions Before Sleeping

By Darien Simon, M.S.

In order to enhance your dreaming and dream recall, first review the suggestions for better sleep, because the factors that interfere with sleeping also interfere with dreaming. Avoid relying on gimmicks or hearsay. For example, in the 1954 film "White Christmas", Bing Crosby's character claims he can determine some of the content of his dreams by what he eats before he goes to bed. However, it is not a good idea to eat a heavy meal shortly before bedtime, as doing so can interfere with getting to sleep as well as sleeping restfully. Without restful sleep, you are unlikely to have dreams you can easily recall. Just before retiring, take stock of your emotional state. Are you stressed? Relaxed? Feeling emotional (angry, hurt, depressed, etc.)? Extremely tired? Make a note of what you're feeling so you can compare it with any dream content you recall. In addition to improving your sleep habits, reserve a few minutes once in bed but before falling asleep to focus your awareness on your intent to dream and to remember your dreams. Try repeating to yourself some statement like "I will dream and remember my dreams." Verbalizing your intentions is a great way to focus your energies. To facilitate dream recall, make sure you keep a dream journal to reinforce your intention. Any notebook or blank book will do, as long as it is reserved solely for recording your dreams. Keep your dream journal, and pen, and whatever light you may need to record your dream recollections by your bedside. If you share your bed or bedroom with someone else, make sure your light won't disturb their sleep.