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Joanna Kowalewska

Unveiling the Mystery: Why Can't I Remember My Dreams?

Updated: Jun 12, 2023


Ilustration of a woman trying to remember something

Have you ever wondered why you can't remember that awesome dream you had last night? You know the one, with the vivid colors and bizarre plot twists. It felt so real, yet it's now vanished from your memory like mist in the morning sun. You're not alone—many people have difficulty remembering their dreams, but why?

In this article, we'll explore why it can be hard to recall your dreams, why we dream in the first place, and how you can improve your dream recall. We'll review why some people are high dream recallers, why others are low dream recallers, and why it might feel like you never remember your dreams. By the end of this article, you'll have a greater understanding of why it can be hard to remember your dreams and how you can make those memories last.


What Is a Dream and Why Do We Dream?

A dream is essentially a sequence of images, emotions, and sensations that occur during sleep. It's generally accepted that why we dream is still unknown, but it's thought that dreams serve a number of purposes. These include problem-solving, emotional regulation, and consolidating memories from the day. Dreams allow us to process our thoughts and feelings in a safe environment, which can help us better understand ourselves and our lives.


Does Everyone Dream?

Yes, everyone dreams! Even if they can't remember their dreams...

The results of a study published in 2020 by scientists from the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences suggest that everyone dreams - regardless of age or gender. In the study, the scientists used an EEG brain scanner to monitor the brain activity of a study group while they were sleeping. Their results showed that everyone studied had unmistakable signs of dreaming during their sleep, proving that everyone dreams.

The study also found that dreaming was most common in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, and that subjects spent an average of two hours each night dreaming. Interestingly, the researchers also found that dream intensity was correlated with physical activity during the day - those who exercised more experienced more intense dreams than those who were less active.


illustration of a man sleeping in his bed

Why Can't I Remember My Dreams


There are a few reasons why you might not remember your dreams.

1. Lack of sleep: Not getting enough sleep can make it difficult to remember your dreams, especially if you're constantly waking up throughout the night.

2. Stress and anxiety: High levels of stress can make it hard to recall your dreams, as the hormones released during periods of stress can interfere with the dreaming process.


3. Distractions: If you're constantly distracted by noise or other stimuli, it can be difficult to focus on your dreams and remember them in enough detail.

4. Medication: Certain medications, such as sleeping pills or antidepressants, can affect your dreaming process and make it hard to recall your dreams.

5. Not setting an intention: Setting an intention, such as wanting to remember your dreams, can help you to focus and better recall them the next day.



High Dream Recallers

High dream recallers are those who can easily remember their dreams, often in great detail. They tend to have longer and more vivid dreams than those who rarely remember their dreams. High dream recallers also often feel more connected to their dreams and find them more meaningful than those with low dream recall.


High dream recallers are able to take full advantage of the power of dreams. Through regular dreamwork, they can uncover deeper meanings and use their dreams to find clarity on life issues and create positive change. With the help of professionals, they can explore these dream messages in greater detail and use them to further understand themselves and their lives.


Interested in dreamwork? Check this article about What Is Dreamowork!


Low Dream Recallers


Low dream recallers are those who rarely or never remember their dreams. This can be due to lack of sleep, stress and anxiety, medication, or distractions. Low dream recall can also be linked to low levels of dreaming activity, which may prevent them from remembering their dreams upon waking.


Recent research conducted by scientists Walker, Pace-Schott and Hobson suggests that why some people remember fewer dreams has to do with differences in brain activity. During the study, those with low dream recall had significantly less activity in the frontal areas of their brain during REM sleep than those with high dream recall. The frontal areas of the brain are linked to memory, so this difference in activity could explain why some people don't recall their dreams as easily as others.


5 Tips for Dream Recall


Would you like to know how to remember your dreams? Here are five tips you can follow in order to do so.


1. Get enough sleep: Make sure to get enough restful sleep in order to maximize dream recall.

2. Set an intention: Before going to bed, set the intention of wanting to remember your dreams.

3. Write it down: Keep a pen and paper (or a dream journal) by your bedside to record any dream details you remember upon waking.

4. Avoid distractions: Turn off all lights and electronics to create a quiet, dark environment for sleeping.

5. Practice dreamwork: Working with a professional or experienced dreamer can help you uncover deeper meanings in your dreams, which can lead to better dream recall.

6. Use Yoga Nidra: Yoga Nidra is a perfect companion for dreamwork as it can help you relax more deeply and increase your dream recall.

By incorporating these valuable tips into your routine and consciously setting an intention to remember your dreams, you open up the gateway to a realm of more vibrant and profound dream experiences. By consistently practicing these techniques, you enhance your ability to recall intricate details and delve into the deeper layers of meaning within your dreams. Embrace the exciting journey that awaits you and may luck be on your side as you embark on this quest of heightened dream recall and exploration!


Signature Joanna Kowalewska | Blue Lotus Queendom

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