This study investigates links between synesthesia and lucid dreaming via perceptual presence and counterfactual-richness (abundant possible sensorimotor contingencies). We hypothesized that synesthetes would report more frequent lucid dreams because enhanced counterfactual-richness facilitates dream control and clarity. We surveyed 616 adults using a synesthesia self-report, the Lucidity and...
This article examines the theoretical and practical frameworks surrounding liminal states of consciousness—specifically lucid dreaming and out-of-body experiences (OBEs)—within Indian religious and philosophical traditions. Through a comparative analysis of Vedāntic, Yogic, Buddhist, and Jain systems, the article argues that these states are not merely anomalous psychological events but...
The present study examined neuroticism and openness as predictors of social readjustment and nightmare distress among middle-aged adults. A sample of 205 adults aged 35 to 60 years completed the Big Five Inventory (BFI), the Social Readjustment Rating Scale (SRRS), and the Nightmare Distress Questionnaire (NDQ). Correlational findings indicated that neuroticism was positively associated with...
Aim: Despite being one of the most disabling symptoms of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)—disrupting sleep continuity, reinforcing hyperarousal, and worsening psychiatric comorbidity—the physiological signature of Trauma‐related nightmares (TRNs) under naturalistic sleep conditions remains poorly characterized. Methods: We used home‐based, multi‐sensor devices from the SOMMEPT cohort to...
Abstract This chapter examines the interaction of four variables captured qualitatively and quantitatively in the Threshold Worlds dream survey: religious identity (or religiousness), religious dreams, hypnagogia, and absorption. Drawing on participants’ examples of religious dreams and hallucinatory experiences during liminal states of consciousness, the complex correlations and relationships...
BACKGROUND: Dreaming during anesthesia is common and may have mental health benefits. However, systematic research on its incidence and outcomes in clinical settings remains limited. This study implemented a standardized propofol-based, electroencephalography (EEG)-guided emergence bundle to facilitate a preemergence state conducive to dreaming, integrating it into routine care to assess...
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...
The present study aimed to describe the prevalence rates of frequent (i.e., at least weekly) dream recall and nightmares with consideration for differences in age, gender and sleep duration in 16 countries using equivalent assessment methods. The study sample included 15,854 participants (69.9% women) aged 18-99 years (M = 42.39, SD = 16.43) collected by the International COVID-19 Sleep Study...
Recurrent nightmares are a distressing manifestation of trauma-related disorders and can persist even in the absence of full post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This case report describes the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatment of a 31-year-old male presenting with a recurring nightmare involving an identical scenario. The nightmare was characterized by intense...
Nightmare Disorder (NDO) is an underdiagnosed sleep disorder causing significant impairment, particularly in active duty U.S. military personnel who experience unique stressors. Despite 59.28% of referred service members reporting nightmares and 19.76% screening positive for probable NDO, baseline diagnosis rate was only 0.60%. Our quality improvement project aimed to improve identification and...