ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Monday, August 5, 1996 TAG: 9608060018
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 1 EDITION: METRO
There is no single personality trait that leads a person to remember dreams. Some studies show creative people such as writers and artists are more aware of their dreams, but researchers attribute such capabilities to a motivation for using the material for work purposes. This points out an opportunity for anyone who wants to more fully recall dreams: Work at it and you will get better at it. Here are some tips:
* Believe it: Simply telling yourself you want to remember dreams (or praying for the ability) improves your recall. This has been documented by dream researchers.
* For the record: Keep a pen and notebook or tape recorder near your bed for quick recording of your dream. The longer you wait, the fewer details you will remember. Fixing on a key image is helpful. Some people even wake up during the night to write out a particularly vivid dream.
* Don't move: When waking up, try to stay in the same position. This tricks the body into thinking it is still in REM sleep mode and you will remember more. Also, keeping your eyes closed helps bring back the dream images. The real-time images of your bedroom will wipe out most dream visuals in seconds.
* Buddy up: Some therapists and physicians contend that you will remember more about your dreams by discussing them with another person, especially on the same day. You might also bore your ``dream buddy'' to tears if you talk too much.
* Don't give up: Even a dream fragment provides plenty of insight for a typical dream workshop or discussion group. A remembered dream every two weeks is about standard for beginners.
- KNIGHT-RIDDER/TRIBUNEl
LENGTH: Short : 38 linesby CNB