Intentional Lucid Dreaming with a Transformative Learning Agenda

Abstract To reduce maladaptive behaviors, cognitive-behavioral and mindfulness-based interventions can be engaged during wakefulness. Such strategies may also be engaged during sleep, providing a unique and powerful pathway to positive behavioral change. Here we describe an initial scientific investigation of Dream Yoga, a type of contemplative practice that includes a set of prescribed tasks enacted after an individual recognizes that they are dreaming while concurrently staying asleep (lucid dreaming). We used polysomnography and two-way communication during dreams in six individuals with extensive Dream-Yoga training. Practitioners purportedly gain insights by developing refined abilities to influence what happens in their dreams. Recordings from 19 overnight sessions documented respiratory signals made during rapid-eye movement sleep in the context of Dream-Yoga exercises. Signals were then described in post-sleep microphenomenological interviews examining these dream experiences in detail. We thus confirmed the viability of intentional dreaming aimed at transforming one’s waking behavior and well-being.