1. Recognize that you are dreaming
The first step to awaken from a dream is to be aware that you are in a dream. There are several ways to induce lucid dreaming – the state in which the dreamer is aware they are dreaming. One way is to perform reality checks in the day time, asking yourself if you’re dreaming so that it becomes a habit. When this happens, you’re better equipped to recognize the weirdness or flaws of the dream situation, which could assist you in waking up.
2. Create a sleep schedule
Ensuring you have enough rest and a healthy sleep routine can also help. By maintaining a healthy sleep regimen, you’ll be healthier and more alert during the day and less prone to fall into a deep sleep at night. Coupled with a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and reduced caffeine intake closer to bedtime, an established sleep schedule can help you stay more alert and awake, ultimately aiding in the ability to snap out of a bad dream.
3. Interrupt the dream
Another method to wake up from a dream is trying to interrupt it. This could be done through quick jerks/movements, coughs, or loud breaths, which cause your physical body to make sudden movements in reality, ultimately jolting you out of sleep. However, these movements might wake up your bed partner or a pet nearby, so beware!
4. Imagine a positive outcome
When you’re aware that you’re in a dream and you want to wake up, try imagining a positive outcome of the dream. By thinking positively, you imbue their lucid dream with a sense of control. By dishing out the already existing negative dream and creating even a surface layer of positivity, it can assist suppress the emotions that induced the bad dream in the first place and create a better opportunity for waking up.
5. Reality testing
For some individuals, reality testing is a good way to what’s real or not. One common technique is to try to read something, look away, then read it over again. If you’re unable to read the thing on the repeat attempt or it’s changed, you’re likely dreaming. This technique will allow you to reality test in your dream and confirm that you’re experiencing a dream state.
In summary, learning how to wake up from a dream is possible. Steps include being aware that you’re dreaming, creating a healthy sleep regimen and routines, trying to interrupt your dream, imagining positive outcomes, reality testing, and performing reality checks during the day. One technique may work better over another because everyone’s personal experience in dreams can vary based on a variety of factors. Nevertheless, these tips will help you increase the likelihood of your ability to awaken from a dream.