When you are first beginning to work with your dreams it is a good idea to purchase a journal or a plain notebook or even create your own to keep at your bedside for quick writing upon awaking. Make sure it is at least 8 ½” by 12” and has many pages for writing notes, sketching and for working on the interpretation part. Remember to have a good reliable pen and or pencil. There is nothing like ruining your mood and recall when you have a pen that runs out of ink or doesn’t write when you are trying to write as fast as you can before you forget your dream!
Below are some additional ways to keep a journal and tips to help you sleep and increase dream recall.
Tape Recorder: A handheld recording device is a good alternative to your notebook or journal for recording your dreams upon waking.
Journal everyday: What you focus on grows. This is true for dreaming too and you will discover that even by writing a little at first will increase your dreams and dream recall as you continue.
Share Your Dream: Each morning if you can share your dream with your partner, friend by doing so and saying it out loud and retelling it keeps it firmer in your mind. I think it creates an atmosphere of connecting with another when you share your dreams. Be sure to listen to what others ideas are about the dream but don’t take their interpretation to heart before figuring it out on your own.
Create Art: One of the ways to keep your dreams going or alive is to take a scene or color or feeling from a dream and translate that into a work of art for yourself and others to enjoy.
Alcohol and Drugs: Both impair dreaming and receiving right action and truthful answers from your subconscious mind. If you have trouble sleeping try a soothing herbal tea or homeopathic sleep aids. Try to refrain from alcohol at least a few hours before going to bed. Also I will add here to keep your meals towards the earlier part of the evening. A heavy meal can really keep you from sleeping well and can be the cause of some crazy dreams!
Exercise daily: Any form of moving around and getting you worn out looking forward to your nice soft bed and pillow. It can be a brisk walk, running errands, dancing, cleaning your house or a real workout with weights.
Aromatherapy: Essential oils diffused or a drop on your pillow can enhance your dream mood. Lavender, Sage, Chamomile are pleasant and also burning incense.
Meditation practice, prayer and affirmations all help relax and focus the mind before sleeping to increase benefits received in and from dreaming.
Appreciation and Gratitude: Every night prior to sleep take time to write down 15 things you are grateful for this day. It can be anything from the sunrise, your pet, a smile or something huge. The point is to get your mind and you into a positive frame for a restful sleep and sweet dreams.
Remember dreams are a reflection of us and who we are so it is most beneficial in all ways mental, spiritual, physical and emotional to have a solid, positive belief system. Nightmares, outlandish dreams, being chased, frustration themes etc are all reflections of our daily grind and subconscious beliefs that affect who we are. Let go of old worn out beliefs and limitations and embrace a positive outlook on yourself and life. We are meant to live life abundantly and enjoy it. Make a choice to move into a positive, happy and abundant life that is full of joy, prosperity and love.
May All Your Sweet Dreams Come True.
Cheri