Thread: Dream recall issues from using the DEILD method

We all know what happens to dream recall as soon as you wake up from any dream, let alone a lucid one. I have experienced how much the memories can start to fade even to the point where you question your own recollection and accuracy of the event. This is why a dream journal is important in this regard.

However, my point is what do you do when you try chaining your (lucid) dreams together? The whole premise of a DEILD attempt, if I understand it correctly (?), is to stay still, eyes closed and try and dwell lightly on your previous (or new) dream. Therefore is it worth sacrificing recall by attempting to DEILD, and thus not journalling in-between, or do you awaken after your lucid dream in order to transcribe it?

Here is a typical example of mine taken from this morning: dream-chain-dild-deild-x2

With me, early on I would sense myself 'waking up' after a lucid dream (usually a DILD). I would often 'try' for a DEILD opportunity, however I was always worried about forgetting vital details about the previous dream. I think this ultimately resulted in anxiety and often ended in failure. (Or I simply ran out of REM maybe!)

In my early days I kept a regular daily dream journal. However I have got really lazy as it took too much time and effort, plus life got in the way. (I know you are supposed to keep one to succeed further). I'm guilty of the cardinal sin where I tend to only write the 'memorable' dreams down nowadays - even this is often several hours later. I don't put any pressure on to have a 'lucid' dream - indeed if it happens, it happens. (I don't lose sleep over it - pun intended).

I have learnt alot though since. Not just about the journalling side (or lack of), but the importance of forums such as this one. Engaging with like-minded people helps enormously, I feel.

Disclaimer: I don't claim to be knowledgeable or an 'expert' in DEILD. However from what I did notice that in my above example(s) I was especially tired during the same night after the initial insomnia. I can only say this was a key difference for me, in comparison to previous DEILD (or WILD) attempts.

When it comes to journalling I know I have a bad habit. We should practice what is preached. Even so, I was wondering how any of you guys approach or deal with these same or similar issues.

Feel free to share your tips, stories, etc.