Why I use a Dream Journal

Many people say they don't remember their dreams. For me, one of the best ways I can remember a dream is to write it down. Even if it's a snippet. It helps me track my patterns, themes, and so much more. I suggest keeping a journal and pen within easy reach of your bed and write down your dream within a few moments of waking up.

I like to put pen to paper. There's something about the textile way it feels and flow. However, many people prefer to record their dreams in other ways such as typing, voice recording, or drawing. Anyway you track your dream is fine. You do you.

Choosing a journal: If you're a pen and paper type like myself, you may want to find a journal. I picked mine up and Barnes and Noble. It's a beautiful mosaic of roses. Many people use a simple notebook to track their dreams and others will choose an elegant journal. Find what works for you. My current journal is lined but I wish I had chosen one with blank pages so that I could draw without the lines crossing through. Sometimes I use a 3x5 card and paste in my journal. The important thing is to get it out of your head and into the world.

1. Write down the dream - I don't know how many times I've thought I'll write down this dream later and sure enough it falls out of my head. Like popcorn, it's best fresh. Even if you have a snippet. Write it down. Many times in writing it down, I create the path for the rest of the dream to come in.

2. Date - Always important so that you can track your dreams to see if there are patterns during a certain period of time in your life. Ahhhh…yes…the summer of….

3. Give your dream a name or title - Naming your dream is important. It anchors the dream and gives it weight and relevance. Pick out key symbols, feelings, or colors to title the dream. I like to use titles that I think would make good story titles. Example: "Chinese Ancestors visit the Festival"

4. Colors from your dream - Color is a key component in a dream. It shows your emotion and mood. Notice how certain colors make you feel. For example, yellow may lead to thoughts of happiness or joy.

5. Symbol or picture: Symbols are a powerful tool in self-discovery and communication. They can represent ideas, beliefs, and cultures. More importantly, you'll be able to find your own personal symbols. Many times I draw or find a picture that represents a piece of my dream.

6. Feelings: It's important to note your feelings in the dream and on awakening. This can be a key factor in determining what your dream means.

7. Themes and Patterns: What themes and patterns keep running through your dreams? Journaling is a good way to see themes and patterns emerge. Do you dream of sharks when you're stressed on taking a test that you haven't prepared for?

8. Reality Check: When you're looking at your dreams, it's always good to see what relevancy your dream has to your daily life. Does your dream self behave in the same way as your waking self. Are there themes or symbols from your dream that you notice in waking life?

9. Action Plan: Acknowledge the dream by making an action plan that embodies the guidance and energy of the dream. For example, I may write a poem about the dream or create a small vision board based on the dream.

By keeping a journal, I help fuel my creativity, process my emotions, and have a record of my dreams. Seeing my dreams on paper makes it easier to process and understand my subconscious thoughts and allows me to gain a deeper understanding of myself.