The clinical neuroscience of lucid dreaming

Sofia Tzioridou, Teresa Campillo-Ferrer, Jorge Cañas-Martín, Linda Schlüter, Susana G. Torres-Platas, Jarrod A. Gott, Nirit Soffer-Dudek, Tadas Stumbrys, Martin Dresler

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

During most dreams, the dreamer does not realize that they are in a dream. In contrast, lucid dreaming allows to become aware of the current state of mind, often accompanied by considerable control over the ongoing dream episode. Lucid dreams can happen spontaneously or be induced through diverse behavioural, cognitive or technological strategies. Such induction techniques have spurred research into the potential therapeutic aspects of lucid dreams. In this review, we gather evidence on the link between lucid dreams and conditions like nightmare disorder, depression, anxiety, psychosis, and dissociative states, and highlight the possible neurobiological basis of these associations. Furthermore, we explore contemplative sleep practices that train lucid states during sleep, such as Dream/Sleep Yoga and Yoga Nidrâ. The potential drawbacks of lucid dreaming interventions are outlined, accompanied by an examination of the impacts of lucid dreams on individuals without clinical conditions. By shedding light on these intricate relationships, the review contributes to a deeper understanding of the therapeutic possibilities and implications of lucid dreaming.

Original languageEnglish
Article number106011
JournalNeuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews
Volume169
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Feb 2025

Keywords

  • Anxiety
  • Clinical neuroscience
  • Depression
  • Dissociation
  • Lucid dreaming
  • Narcolepsy
  • Nightmares
  • Out-of-body experience
  • Psychosis
  • Sleep
  • Sleep paralysis
  • Yoga nidrâ

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology
  • Cognitive Neuroscience
  • Behavioral Neuroscience

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