The real-life experience of lucid dreaming is like playing a video game, giving us control over our dreams and entering the realm of our subconscious. Amid the excitement of dictating the direction of our dreams, questions about the potential impacts of this practice arise: Is lucid dreaming safe, or could it actually be dangerous? “Lucid dreaming is like having a foot in both worlds: the conscious, waking world and the subconscious dream world,” says dream analyst Lauri Loewenberg, author of Dream on It: Unlock Your Dreams, Change Your Life. While towing the line between reality and the dream world may seem a bit scary, the potential benefits of lucid dreaming make it worth any initial fears, says Loewenberg. “If you’re able to lucid dream, it is one hell of a superpower!”
Are there any risks associated with lucid dreaming? Potentially, yes. The primary risks of lucid dreaming involve the impact on our waking life, rather than the act of lucid dreaming itself. Regularly attempting lucid dreaming can disrupt sleep habits, potentially resulting in health consequences ranging from minor effects like a bad mood and poor concentration to more serious risks such as an increased risk of diabetes and dementia. Some dream techniques to achieve lucid dreaming, such as the Wake Back To Bed method, require forcing oneself to wake up and fall back asleep in quick succession, leading to sleep deprivation for the sake of lucid dreams. It’s important to use these techniques responsibly, as it is not recommended to interfere with sleep hygiene, which is essential for physical and mental health. Additionally, continuous control over dreams and the waking life can lead to difficulty differentiating between the two, which could become particularly dangerous for individuals dealing with certain forms of psychosis.
However, when done responsibly, lucid dreaming can offer significant benefits and even be used as a therapeutic intervention for individuals with PTSD. Lucid dreaming can help individuals overcome trauma by enabling them to face their fears in a safe environment. While there is a potential for inflicting harm on oneself during a lucid dream, it’s important to understand that any physical harm experienced in a dream only exists within the dream world and cannot manifest in reality.
Lucid dreams can also become intense or frightening, similar to regular dreams. However, the awareness in lucid dreams allows individuals to control their reactions and overcome fear, ultimately deciding what happens next. It’s important to remain calm and to focus on safe and positive images or scenarios during lucid dreaming. Additionally, it’s crucial not to overdo attempts at lucid dreaming, as doing so may overlook vital messages from the subconscious.
Overall, lucid dreaming has the potential to be both beneficial and dangerous, depending on how responsibly and purposefully it is practiced. By understanding and using lucid dreaming with caution, individuals can harness its power to positively impact their mental state and well-being.
