Subconsia | Neuroscience, Psychology & Unconscious Exploration

Published May 17, 2025

We spend a third of our lives sleeping, but did you know it's possible to become fully aware during your dreams? This fascinating phenomenon, called lucid dreaming, is attracting increasing interest from scientists and the general public. Let's explore it together.

A unique state of consciousness

"In a lucid dream, the sleeper suddenly becomes aware that they're dreaming, while maintaining the sleep state," explains Dr. Stephen LaBerge, a pioneer in lucid dreaming research at Stanford University.⁽¹⁾ His work, published as early as the 1980s, scientifically validated this phenomenon long considered a legend.

Through ingenious protocols, researchers have been able to communicate with sleepers during lucid dreams. Participants signaled their state through predefined eye movements while remaining asleep.

What brain imaging reveals

Neuroimaging studies have revealed distinctive brain activity during these dreams. Researchers observed activation of the prefrontal cortex (seat of self-awareness) along with increased gamma brain waves, typically associated with consciousness. They also noted unusual synchronization between different brain areas.

"It's as if the brain combines characteristics of sleep and wakefulness," comments Dr. Ursula Voss, psychology professor at Goethe University Frankfurt.⁽²⁾

The benefits of lucid dreaming, supported by science

Regarding nightmare reduction, a study published in Current Biology (2018) reveals that lucid dreaming can significantly decrease nightmare frequency in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). About 80% of PTSD sufferers report nightmares, and lucid dreaming techniques have shown notable improvement without disrupting sleep.⁽³⁾

For motor improvement, research at the German Sport University Cologne suggests mental practice during lucid dreaming could enhance physical performance, with results comparable to traditional physical training. Data indicates measurable improvement, though results vary between individuals.⁽⁴⁾

As for creativity stimulation, many artists like Salvador Dalí used lucid dreams to fuel inspiration. Though difficult to quantify, this state may foster original ideas by freeing the mind from conscious constraints.

How to experience lucid dreams?

Several methods, validated by neuroscience and experimental psychology studies, increase the chances of experiencing this phenomenon.

The MILD technique (Mnemonic Induction of Lucid Dreams), developed by psychophysiologist Stephen LaBerge, involves mentally repeating before sleep: "Next time I'm dreaming, I'll remember I'm dreaming."⁽⁵⁾ A study in Dreaming (2017) showed this approach, combined with strong intention, nearly doubles beginners' chances of lucid dreams.⁽⁶⁾

Reality checks are another effective approach. This involves checking several times daily whether you're awake, for example by trying to breathe with pinched nostrils, looking at your hands, or pushing a finger through your palm. In dreams, these actions produce impossible results. These habits then carry over into dreams, triggering lucidity.

The Wake Back To Bed (WBTB) technique completes the arsenal of available methods. This involves waking after 4-6 hours of sleep, staying awake 20-30 minutes (to read about lucid dreams, for example), then returning to sleep while visualizing a dream. This leverages longer REM phases in late sleep, conducive to lucidity.

Precautions and limitations

While lucid dreaming is generally safe, some pitfalls should be avoided. It's important not to sacrifice sleep: overinvesting in these techniques can disrupt natural sleep cycles. Sleep quality should remain the priority.

Unregulated substances should also be avoided: some supplements (like galantamine) are sometimes used to promote lucidity, but their efficacy and safety aren't always supported by solid evidence.

Caution is advised for psychological disorders: people suffering from psychosis or dissociation should consult a professional before attempting lucid dreaming, as the boundary between dream and reality might become blurred.

The future of lucid dreaming: promising applications

Researchers are now exploring various therapeutic and cognitive uses. Treating recurrent nightmares ranks among the most promising applications. As mentioned earlier, lucid dreaming lets patients regain control during nightmares, reducing their frequency (studies ongoing with PTSD veterans).⁽⁷⁾

Overcoming phobias represents another interesting research avenue. By simulating anxiety-inducing situations in dreams, some therapists are testing risk-free exposure protocols.

Motor skill enhancement also shows promise. Mental practice during lucid dreaming activates the same brain areas as physical training, a perspective being explored for post-stroke rehabilitation.

Finally, consciousness studies represent a field where lucid dreams offer unique ground for understanding how the brain generates self-perception and reality.

Final Thoughts: A booming research field

"Lucid dreams offer us a unique window into consciousness," emphasizes Dr. Tadas Stumbrys, research pioneer at Vilnius University.

For those wishing to try, the key lies in patience and regularity. Results vary between individuals, but with practice, these experiences open unsuspected doors for both science and personal growth.

And you, what inner landscape will you discover in your nightly theater?