Lucid Dreaming (LD): First Steps

Lucid dreaming (LD) is a state in which you realize you’re dreaming while the dream is still happening. Sometimes this also leads to a degree of control over the dream.

LD is a skill that can be trained. And when it’s used within an occult practice, it places that practice on a solid foundation connected to consciousness, attention, and personal inner work.

A Brief History

The term “lucid dreaming” was introduced by the Dutch psychiatrist Frederik van Eeden (1860–1932). Later, the topic gained a clearer scientific framework when researchers began looking for objective ways to demonstrate that a person can be aware during a dream.

Some of the most widely known laboratory confirmations are linked to the work of Stephen LaBerge (a psychophysiologist), who popularized a method of signaling from within a dream using pre-arranged eye movements during the REM phase. LD is also associated with The Lucidity Institute, founded by LaBerge, which collects materials and techniques for practitioners.

In short, research suggests that:

Lucid dreaming is a real phenomenon that can be observed and described.

It happens more often during REM sleep.

It involves metacognition (the ability to recognize and reflect on your own state), although the intensity can vary.

How Lucid Dreams Happen (Most Common Scenarios)

In practice, lucid dreaming can arise in several ways:

1) Lucid dreaming during a regular dream (most common)

You’re dreaming normally, and at some point it “clicks”:

“Wait… this is a dream.”

This is the most natural and common scenario.

2) Entering a lucid dream directly from wakefulness (more difficult)

Here, a person keeps a thread of awareness while the body falls asleep. This usually requires training and good sleep hygiene.

3) Lucid dreaming after preparation (using a technique or intention)

This includes dream journaling, working with “dream signs,” reality checks, and other methods that gradually increase the likelihood of becoming lucid.

4) Lucid dreaming around sleep paralysis (rare and often unpleasant)

Sleep paralysis is a state in which you “wake up,” but briefly feel unable to move. It’s related to REM mechanisms, when the body naturally enters muscle atonia. The experience is usually short, but it can be frightening and may be accompanied by panic (fear, pressure, choking sensations, thoughts like “I’m going to die” or “I’m going to lose my mind,” etc.).

This is not a goal and not a recommended “method.” If it happens often and feels intense, it’s wiser to approach the situation carefully and consider professional guidance.

What Lucid Dreaming Is NOT (Important for a Grounded Approach)

To avoid confusion:

LD should not be mistaken for “objective reality.”

LD does not replace healthy sleep. Sleep is essential, and it’s not a good idea to disrupt it constantly.

LD is not a competition. A little—steady and high-quality—is better than a lot that leaves you drained.

What It’s Useful For (Practical Reasons)

People practice lucid dreaming for different reasons, such as:

developing inner awareness

practicing new skills in a safe environment

working with nightmares (for some people)

creativity, ideas, symbols, and more

The First Solid Foundation: Remembering Your Dreams

If there’s one thing that tends to bring the biggest results in the beginning, it’s this:

Start remembering more dreams.

Without dream recall, there’s no “material” for awareness to build on.

That’s why the logical next step is: a dream journal + learning to recognize dream signs.

A Simple First Practice

Tonight, you can do just this:

1) Before sleep (1 minute)

Say calmly to yourself:

“If I notice something strange, I will ask myself: am I dreaming?”

2) In the morning

Write down what you remember—even two sentences. Over time, you’ll remember more.

That’s enough to start.

A Note on Safety

If you’re under heavy stress, sleep-deprived, exhausted, or dealing with health issues, it’s not wise to use techniques that disrupt sleep (for example, intentionally waking up during the night).

If lucid dreaming brings you anxiety, panic, or a sense of instability, it’s better to return to the basics: calm, regular sleep and a dream journal—without forcing anything.

How This Connects to Occult Practice

In my approach, occult practice is first and foremost practice and personal inner work. Lucid dreaming can be viewed as a space for:

working with symbols and personal imagery

training willpower and attention

inner rehearsal and intention-setting

deeper self-knowledge

It’s a skill of consciousness—and that’s exactly why it’s valuable.

Author: Nick G. Quenfield