Psychologist Carl Jung believed that every character in a dream is a part of the dreamer, trying to share a message. A dream that sticks in the mind during the following day, or even a series of related dreams, may offer guidance in a current struggle or insight into the future.
Dream Meditation
The following meditation encourages the dreamer to engage disturbing or memorable characters in a dream and seek wisdom from them. Practice the meditation shortly after having the dream, so that the details and actions are still clear in the mind. If the exercise causes intense fear or ignites past trauma, be open to seeking professional help to further explore the dream.
Explore a Dream's Meaning
Try the following steps to seek wisdom from a dream.
1. Settle in a comfortable place for ten to twenty minutes. Take three deep breaths. Focus on relaxing the body and letting go of any tension or unwanted thoughts. Minimize interruptions, and keep a journal nearby to record any information learned through the exercise.
2. Close the eyes, and imagine the scene from the dream. Where is it? Who is there? What sights, smells, sounds, and tastes are present? Picture the self standing exactly in that scene.
3. Notice any people in the scene. Who are they? What are they doing? Choose the most striking or disturbing person in the scene- the person who claims all attention- and walk up to him or her. If the person is a monster or an animal instead, take a few deep breaths to feel calm and regain control. Monsters and animals have messages, too.
4. If feeling afraid or insecure, invite someone else as a companion in the scene. Select a strong person, a role model perhaps, who inspires and whose presence feels safe. Imagine holding the person's hand or smiling at them for encouragement.
5. With the help of the friend, walk up to the person or figure and ask a few questions. Who are you? Why are you here? What do you want? Ask these or other questions, and be slow and gentle. The character may not want to answer or may resist answering. Be patient. If stuck, ask the friend for help.
6. Examine the character carefully. Does the person frighten you? If so, why? Notice his or her posture, clothes, and features. What is the character feeling? Is that blood sucking zombie really so scary with torn trousers and tear stained cheeks? Be open to seeing the compassion, the vulnerability in the character.
7. To conclude the meditation notice that the friend is holding a small flashlight. Watch as he or she shines the light on the character and on you. Thank the character for the information given. See how the character wants to say good-bye. Be open to a nod, handshake, or even a hug from the character.
8. The light grows and brightens to fill the space. It is warm and beautiful. Slowly turn and walk out of the dream scene. Bask in this light for several minutes before opening the eyes.
Repeat the exercise for different characters in a dream, or to learn more from the same character. Be careful to perform the exercise too often. This type of work can be enlightening but also tiring.
For best results, keep a dream journal to records details of dreams as well as insights from meditating on the dreams.
The human mind offers much wisdom. This easy dream meditation is merely one tool in self-discovery and exploration.
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