Do you wake up every morning without recalling any sort of dream? You hear others describe vivid adventures, visits from loved ones, or on the unfortunate end, scary nightmares, but you only have a blank canvas with nothing to write in a dream diary.
What does it mean when you don’t dream?
Well, what if we told you that you actually are dreaming, even if you don’t remember it. Keep reading to learn how this is possible and why you may not be able to think back on your dreams.
Don’t Panic!
First, let’s make it clear that just because you’re not remembering your dreams, doesn’t mean there is something seriously wrong with you. Our brains are powerful and mysterious, and everyone has a different relationship with dreaming. Our lives are also not always consistent, meaning outside factors can be contributing to the lack of recollection.
But okay, it is unusual to never be able to recall a dream, so let’s figure out the why!
Does Everyone Dream?
Yes! Even if you aren’t remembering your dreams, you are still dreaming!
Why Do We Dream?
Think of your brain as a computer. A computer only has so much memory. It cannot hold a never-ending amount of information because it would become overwhelmed and start malfunctioning. In order to keep your computer happy, you get rid of old files you don’t need to make room for new information down the road. Well, your brain does that as you sleep, especially when you are in REM sleep, though you can also dream when not in REM. Your brain is able to consolidate memories, process them, and even hash out scenarios that are desirable or dangerous. We put these memories into figurative boxes, some that will be tucked away forever, others that we keep but are more hazy with less details, and for a select few, they are left vivid in our minds, undisturbed by time.
But what about these fictional scenarios some people dream about? What do they mean?
You know how you will practice a speech in the mirror? Or think of a “what if” situation while you’re in the shower? Your brain does this to prepare yourself for different situations and outcomes, and your brain sees preparation as a form of protection. Well, you’re also unknowingly doing this while sleeping. Your brain processes all sorts of things in the form of dreams–your secrets, your wishes, your conflicts, your fears.
Now, there is no steadfast, 100% truth to why we dream, meaning that these are theories by scientists and experts in the field. But it’s a lot to think about (either awake or asleep).
Why Don’t I Have Dreams?
Well, as previously mentioned, you do still dream even if you don’t remember them. So the more accurate question is: Why don’t I remember my dreams?
It might be because you aren’t getting enough REM sleep, or that you are stressed. Even if you don’t think you’re stressed, your body knows and this can impact your recollection. You may also have a sleep disorder, such as insomnia or sleep apnea. If you think this may apply to you, we recommend speaking to your doctor, who may schedule you for a sleep study.
How Can I Remember My Dreams?
In order to remember your dreams, you need to first understand the root cause, as mentioned above. However, there are tips and tricks that have helped some people.
- Try to go to sleep around the same time every night.
- Journal before bed & be consistent about it.
- Stay away from your phone or other electronic devices leading up to bedtime.
- Declutter–a cluttered sleeping space can lead to a cluttered, overwhelmed mind.
- Do some deep breathing exercises before bed to help relax the mind & body.
- If you remember your dream upon waking, write it down.
Start Dreaming
Don’t be discouraged–you are dreaming and just need to get back in tune with your brain in order to remember exactly what your mind is up to as you sleep.
Interested in learning more about dreaming? Here are some recommended books to add to your TBR.
- When Brains Dream by Antonio Zandra and Robert Stickgold
- This is Why You Dream by Rahul Jandial, MD, PhD
- Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker
- The Dream Dictionary from A to Z by Theresa Cheung
Wishing you sweet dreams!