Despite dreaming being such a normal occurrence, scientists are still trying to figure out its true purpose. Although there are quite a few different theories, scientists have yet to agree on one that would explain why we dream. Since they can’t even agree on the purpose of dreams, there are many who are skeptical about their healing power. There are those who think dreaming is simply a byproduct of evolution that has no benefit and merely represents an unintended consequence of sleep.

On the other hand, some scientists decided to dedicate their lives to learning how to understand dreams and use them for healing purposes. More specifically, they believe dreams represent a tool that can help us overcome mental health problems. Of course, you’ll rarely get an epiphany or actually figure out a solution to a problem you’re facing from a dream if you just go to sleep and wish an answer will come to you.

In order to experience this healing power, you will need to learn how to be self aware in the dream-world. This practice is commonly referred to as lucid dreaming. If you’ve never practiced this before, then you most likely don’t have the ability to make your own decisions in dreams. However, when you learn the art of lucid dreaming, you will know when you’re dreaming and you will have the ability to control what happens.

Although this may sound like a fairytale to some, lucid dreaming has been proven numerous times. In fact, it has a rich history in Asia, since Tibetan monks have been practicing this for thousands of years. Only recently have people all across the globe realized the power of this practice and started implementing it into their daily lives.

While some people may be thinking that they don’t even dream most nights, this is actually not the case. Typically, you experience three to seven dreams every night. Nevertheless, in most cases you forget them almost instantly. That’s why the first step towards learning how to lucid dream is to keep a journal and write down what you dreamt about. Do this every time you wake up and try to remember as many details as possible.

Since it’s hard to control your dreams at first, you will first need to learn how to know when you’re dreaming. You can do this by doing reality checks like checking the time or reading a sentence, which is incredibly hard to do while you’re dreaming. That’s why you should make it a habit to regularly do reality checks while you’re awake until they become your second nature and you start doing them while you’re dreaming. The next time you’re trying to fall asleep, simply think about a recent dream you had and think about being self aware in the same setting this time. If you’re start dreaming do a reality check and if that works, you’ll start becoming lucid. Of course, you should also research some other techniques to help you with lucid dreaming.

Once you master the art of lucid dreaming, you will be able to overcome many issues you’re facing. For example, if you have problems with confidence you can go through numerous scenarios that would normally make you uncomfortable and practice until you become comfortable. Lucid dreaming can help you even if you have a phobia.

Scientists are now figuring out that lucid dreaming can even be used to treat serious conditions like post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). One of the main problems that people suffer from PTSD experience are the recurring nightmares. But when you’re in control of your dreams, you’re able to change its context or simply wake up if you don’t want to experience it.

Despite the fact that it may sound too good to be true, lucid dreaming is a proven practice that can help you overcome many problems. Nevertheless, it’s going to take some serious commitment on your part if you want to master this practice.