1.
Throughout the day, while you are awake, ask yourself, "Is this a
dream?" anytime something odd happens or even when nothing out of the
ordinary happens. The trick is not to answer the question with an
immediate "Of course I am not dreaming!". Come up with a
consistent way to check if you are awake or asleep. For example checking
the time on a clock and then quickly check it again. If you are dreaming,
the time will always
dramatically change at the second glance. Or if
you are reading something, look away and then read it again.
Again if
you dreaming, when you look at it the
second time, whatever
you are
reading will be completely different. As you keep asking yourself
this question during the day, the question will become second nature. You
will ask the question during your dreams. And when you do your check to
see if you are awake or asleep, you are well on your way to lucidity.
2.
Identify your dream signals. These are objects or images in your
dream that serve as cues or markers to let you know that you are dreaming.
Anything can be a dream signal and is unique to each individual dreamer.
It may help to read through your dream journal and select an images that
seem to constantly appear in your dreams. By selecting a recurring image,
then it has a better chance of appearing in your future dreams. Then when
you are ready for bed, tell yourself that "When I see an apple, then
I know I am dreaming." or whatever dream signal you have chosen.
3.
Use your dream signs to let you know that you are dreaming. When
an anomaly or something impossible occurs in your dream, instead of
ignoring it or trying to rationalize it, let it be an indicator that you
are dreaming. Some common dream signs include flying, walking through
walls or the appearance of someone who is dead in real life.
4.
Finally encourage your lucid dreams, but do not force them, as
your efforts may have an opposite effect. It is important to relax.
As
you improve your lucid dreaming, you can even learn to "write"
your own dream scripts. Your sense of smell and touch will become
heightened. Before going to bed tell yourself what you want to dream and
what area you want to explore.
