Japanese scientist Kazuhiko Fukuda expressed doubts that studies on lucid dreaming can be objective because this phenomenon is difficult to induce in a laboratory, and authors’ conclusions are often based on lucid dreamers’ accounts. However, some modern approaches—including communicating with dreamers during lucid dreams (such experiments have been conducted by REMspace) and developing devices that aid lucidity—are optimistic.
Interestingly, the scientist notes similarities between lucid dreaming and other states we call “phase states.” Alongside lucid dreaming, he mentions sleep paralysis and out-of-body experiences, linking them to increased awareness levels in the rapid eye movement sleep phase and the activation of specific brain waves.
The author adds that in Japanese culture, there is a phenomenon known as “kanashibari.” It is not lucid dreaming – it is more like sleep paralysis: there is an understanding of one’s “self” while the body is paralyzed, and, in fact, the person continues to sleep. However, both states deal with dreaming, where self-control is intensified.
The researcher urges caution when it comes to lucid dreams, stating that their effectiveness is not proven, and issues with sleep and blurring the lines between reality and fantasy can arise. Moreover, according to the author, attaching too much importance and meaning to dreams may be related to mental disorders.
Have you noticed any negative impact from practicing lucid dreaming?
The article was published in December 2023 in The Journal of Sleep and Environments.
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