Brain Activity Differs During Lucid Dreams, Study Finds

Earlier studies suggested that lucid dreams are simply more vivid or intense versions of regular dreams. However, new research indicates distinct brain activity patterns during lucid dreaming. These patterns differ significantly from those observed during both regular dreams and wakefulness. This challenges previous assumptions about the nature of lucid dreams. Researchers discovered that lucid dreams are associated with reduced beta wave activity in specific brain regions. These regions control spatial awareness, sense of agency, and self-awareness. Gamma waves, linked to heightened attention and consciousness, were enhanced in the medial prefrontal cortex. This area is responsible for self-referential thought and metacognition. The study, led by Chahat Demirel from the Radboud University Medical Center in the Netherlands, analyzed a large dataset. It included previous sleep studies measuring brain activity via EEG. Researchers compared brain activity patterns during wakefulness, REM sleep, and lucid dreams. The findings suggest lucid dreams are a unique state of consciousness. Demirel and colleagues found brain activity patterns unique to lucid dreams. These patterns resembled brain activity associated with psychedelic experiences. Researchers suggest that this reduction might signal the brain's recognition that the dream isn't real. This recognition allows the dreamer to become aware that they are dreaming. Researchers propose that this reduction may signal the brain's recognition that the dream isn't real. Lucid dreaming might occur spontaneously, but there are techniques to induce them. Mnemonic induction of lucid dreams, also known as the "mild" technique, is effective. It involves four basic steps to use when waking up in the middle of the night. First, after waking, try to remember what you were dreaming about. Then, identify dream signs that help you realize you are dreaming. Next, repeat the phrase: "The next time I’m dreaming, I will remember I’m dreaming." Finally, continue imagining the dream's content and repeat the phrase until sleep returns. This technique leads to lucid dreaming in 20% of cases.