How to dream recall

[fieldy]

Okay, so i've begun keeping a dream journal and i have all of one entry after almost two weeks, and this was a dream that lasted no more than 5 or 6 minutes. as i've heard that everyone dreams even though they may not remember it, are there any other tips to help my dream recall? i try the laying still when i wake up, 'idling' my mind etc, but i still can't remember any dreams whatsoever. i don't take drugs and only drink once a week and that's limited to no more than 2 pints so i'm pretty sure it's nothing to do with this, i do consume a fair amount of caffeine throughout the day, but not excessively and i get at least 8 hours of sleep a night. as you can probably tell i'm a little frustrated haha, does anyone have any other tips i can try?

[Rezzo]

Willpower. I've noticed that if I want to remember my dreams, then I can. This might not work for you, but as long as you have willpower to try and remember your dreams, you're one step closer. Sorry, that's all I can really say to be honest.

[TheLight]

Hi Rezzo is completely right about it - your willpower plays the most important role in dream recall. And keeping a dream journal will probably 'show' your subconsciousness that you want to remember your dreams. I, for example, repeat a mantra while waiting to fall asleep. Something like "I want to remember my dreams and become aware that I'm in a dream.

[Dre4m3r]

Just keep writing down details of your dreams that you do remember. It's a skill. You must practice a skill to get better at it.

[Wildman]

Effort, practice, and routine. Motivate yourself: Why do you want to remember your dreams? Think about what you might be missing out on, and gain a real desire to remember your dreams. Think about it during the day, and as you're falling asleep. As has been suggested, dream journals are also very important. Don't just write down your dreams -- write down your impressions, and maybe even analyze how well your recall has been lately. If you want to really get better, try to figure out what "works" and what doesn't for your recall. Other things you can try: - Waking up at several instances during the night and trying to remember any dreams. - Keeping a very regular sleep schedule.

[ollei]

This has som good tips... just scroll down a bit.

[Abra]

If none of these tips help, you should write down whatever emotion is lingering when you wake up. Hint: if the emotion is "tired/dazed," you might be waking up during deep sleep! If that's the case, I'd add 15 minute increments of sleep more each night until you end up waking in the middle of a REM period.