What is Lucid Dreaming?

I’m often asked, “What is lucid dreaming?” 

The definition is very simple: Lucid dreaming is being aware that you are dreaming while you are dreaming. That's it. No more, no less. This is my definition. I don’t consider dream control, or controlling one’s dreams, as a requirement for ‘being lucid.’ Just being aware that you are dreaming WHEN YOU ARE DREAMING is enough. (Not as easy as it sounds, but with practice, you will understand this.) 

Yes, you must be ‘in some form of control’ over yourself and the dream environment to be aware that you are dreaming, but this is different than ‘controlling your dreams.’ Think of yourself and the world when you are awake. How much of it are you ‘controlling’ to just be aware that you are awake and in this waking world? Not much, and this is the same for being aware you are dreaming but not really 'controlling' the dream. Get it? I’m sure we are all ‘controlling’ our own ‘world,’ but it’s a subtle control, and that’s what I’m referring to as controlling your dreams in the beginning phases of lucid dreaming. Just be aware that you are dreaming while you are dreaming! 

Here is another answer to, “what is lucid dreaming?”: Lucid dreaming is the ability to consciously observe your dreams. (Please note that you can passively observe your dreaming or actively observe your dreams, and even participate in them, but that's another topic for another post.) Having consciousness within the dream-state transforms it into a living alternate reality - where everything you see, hear, feel, taste and even smell can be as authentic as real life. 

So, the basic definition of a lucid dream is this: heightened awareness during dreams. The phrases ‘lucid dreams’ or ‘conscious dreams’ are used interchangeably on many sites. They may all mean the same thing, so pay attention. Work on the 'dream control' slowly and gently as it takes time to get the hang of it, just as when you were a baby 'getting the hang of' waking life.  

Many beginners assume that lucid dreaming must equal full dream control, but this is a major misconception. Lucid dreaming only means to have consciousness within the dream state. This can imply dream control, or it can imply simply observing the dream world with the clarity of thought enabled by your heightened awareness. Both are very appealing propositions to participate in.

In short, lucid dreaming means that you are conscious of the fact that you are dreaming while you are in a dream. This allows you to consciously interact and (possibly) control the dream for recreational or exploratory purposes.

Being in a lucid dream is exactly like being awake – as you are right now. Except in reality, you are asleep in your bed. While non-lucid dreams often feel like a vague recollection of a movie you’ve seen - dreams seem so real that you just “play along” without questioning the state you are really in. A lucid dream lets you influence and choose what you are going to do, not to mention having a ton of fun!

Once again, lucid dreaming is simply being aware that you are dreaming. With enough experience, you can increase control over your dreams, anything from flying to creating people and places, and even changing into animals. Having a lucid dream is like being the director of your own play! 

Please keep this in mind: Sometimes you dream that you fall asleep and have a lucid dream! This is often thought of as a sign that you will have a proper lucid dream soon, as your mind is thinking a lot about lucid dreams. 

Here are a few tips to get an idea if you are lucid while dreaming or not. 

Signs you were lucid: 

Doing a reality check which gave a positive result. I will explain what 'reality checks' are in a different post.

Remarks to dream characters that you are dreaming.

Attempting to stabilize the dream.

Attempting to fly, walk through mirrors, etc. immediately after realizing you are dreaming.

Waking up as soon as you realize that you are dreaming.

Signs you are not lucid dreaming:

Treating dream characters as you would real people.

Having an unusually poor recall for that dream after you became lucid.

Not recognizing illogical parts of the dream as a dream.

Doing a reality check which gave a negative result.

And, last but not least, a comment from a member of our lucid dreaming group in regards to if you are lucid dreaming or not: 

“Wondering if you are lucid dreaming or not is similar to having an orgasm...or not. If you are having one, or have had one, you’ll know it. If not, you won’t.” 

LOL! I mean, if that doesn't explain it, nothing will! When you have a lucid dream, I'm quite sure, if you have any form of dream recall, you will KNOW you had a lucid dream. It's as simple as that. 

...and besides, these are all only words. Practice the steps to lucid dreaming and find out for yourself! 

Enrique

P.S. – As I have more time to write I may come back and add to this post. It’s a very simple concept, so please think on this a bit and start practicing!