The Meaning of Dreams

We all have them. Some make sense, others confuse. There are those that make us feel happy and those that leave us terrified. There are even some that seem to be prophetic. Whatever your age, when you close your eyes at night, dreams will follow.

What Are Dreams?

Dreams are essentially stories and images our mind creates while we sleep. Although they can occur anytime during sleep, the most vivid dreams, the ones we tend to remember, usually occur during deep, REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, a time when the brain is at its most active.

Some experts say we dream at least four to six times per night (although as many as 95 per cent of all dreams are quickly forgotten not long after waking).

Why Do We Dream?

There are lots of theories about why we dream, but nobody knows for certain. Some researchers say dreams have no purpose whatsoever and are simply random, yet sometimes relatable stories that don’t reflect what is happening in our lives.

Other theories include dreams representing a way of processing memories, a method for the mind to work through difficult and complex emotions (thought to be why dreams are often more memorable during times of depression and anxiety) or a way for the brain to organise and prepare itself to face perceived dangers and threats.

Dreams and the Unconscious

Psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud believed that dreams allow people to express unconscious wishes they find unacceptable in real life. In his famous book, The Interpretation of Dreams, Freud wrote that dreams are ‘…disguised fulfilments of repressed wishes.’

Dreams as Prophecies

Due to their often-vivid nature, there have always been those who believe that dreams offer an insight into the future. And this has been going on for much of recorded history.

In ancient Egypt, for example, people with vivid dreams were thought to be blessed with special insight, and many of their dreams have been found recorded on papyrus.

The Universality of Dreams

Whatever the truth behind the meaning of dreams, researchers have found that certain dream themes can be found across different cultures. So, that dream you had of being chased or falling is not unique. All across the world, people are having the same theme in their own dreams.

Ever wake up from a dream and struggle to get back to sleep? Check out these tips to help you go back to sleep!