PreSleep
The Pre-Dream State is that period of time that is spent in preparation for sleeping. No new activities that require conscious functioning are usually initiated during this time period.
A. ENGAGE IN DREAM RELATED ACTIVITIES
One activitity that you can engage in is to spend 15 minutes writing up the day's activities as if they were the plot of a dream.
B. EXPECT TO REMEMBER YOUR DREAMS
One method for setting up your expectations is to date your dream record with the date of the following day.
C. REVIEW PAST DREAMS
Spend some time reviewing your previous dreams. This will fix in your mind the idea that you will be engaging in activities that will increase dream recall.
D. AUTO-SUGGESTION ABOUT RECALL
Before falling asleep, tell yourself that you will have dreams and that you will awaken after any important dreams that you may have. These suggestions should be worded in a positive manner.
E. PHYSICALLY GET READY TO RECALL YOUR DREAMS
Before you retire, lay out your paper, pencil or tape recorder in such a way that you will be able to reach them first thing in the morning. If you will be recording dreams during the night, also have an easy method to turn on the lights.
F. STAY AWAKE TO RECORD YOUR DREAM
To keep from falling back to sleep after awakening during the night or in the morning, set a glass of water next to you so that you can take a drink. Another method is to have a small night light that you can turn on that will also provide some stim ulus to keep you awake.
G. HYPNAGOGIC IMAGES
As you are falling asleep, watch the images that seem to be forming in your mind. It may take you a few nights to become aware that these images exist and can be seen.
H. REVIEW OF THE DAY
As you are falling asleep, start with the begining of the day and review it step-by-step. Try to stay awake as long as possible in that state that is between being awake and being asleep.
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