Dreams

Intention:

We call dreams the ideas, images, and emotions that we experience while we sleep. Interestingly, we also refer to our aspirations as dreams. Possibly since the beginning of humanity, individuals, and groups, according to their personal inclinations and their beliefs and traditions, have developed ideas about the origin and meaning of dreams, and the ways in which they can contribute to life when we are awake. While some people explain dreams exclusively as biological processes, others consider them channels of communication with wise and powerful sources.

In this section we are invited to pay attention and learn from our dreams when we sleep and when we daydream.

Instruction:

Write down the dreams you remember upon waking up, and if you wish, those that come up when you daydream. You can include images illustrations too.

If you use a dream journal, you may write about some dreams in this section.

If you are not used to writing down your dreams, you may start by keeping something to write on at your bedside to note the dreams you remember right after waking up. Highlight notable themes or patterns (recurring dreams, premonitory dreams, emotions). Reflect by noting relevant associations and interpretations.

At bedtime, think about matters for which you would like clarification or guidance, and state an intention to remember and write down your dreams when you wake up.

The questions below are offered as guides to exploring your dreams.

Inspection:

·       What seem to be the primary sources of your dreams?

·       What themes or types of dreams do you consider nightmares?

·       To what extent do your dreams complement your awake life?

·       What are notable matters and moods in your dreams?

·       What have your dreams taught you or reminded you of?

·       What influence do your dreams have on your daily life?