Dreams
The human brain is a very complex organ that remains active even when we are asleep, and creates vivid experiences that we call 'dreams'.
What are dreams? In simple words, dreams are a natural phenomenon that occurs during our sleep, primarily because of the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) stage.
The mysterious occurances of dreams are studied from scientific and psychological perspectives, and it is believed that dreams occur because of various neurological, psychological and environmental factors.
In 'The Interpretation of Dreams', a book published by Sigmund Freud in 1899, Freud introduces the theory of unconscious to dream Interpretation. According to the father of psychoanalysis, dreams are formed because of two mental processes. The first process involves unconscious forces that construct a wish and are expressed by a dream. The second process is a form of censorship that forcibly distorts the expression of wish.
Freud viewed all dreams as forms of 'wish fulfilment', and he stated in his work, 'The Interpretation of Dreams', that "My presumption that dreams can be interpreted at once puts me in opposition to the ruling theory and in fact to every theory of dreams..."
He believed that dreams are the window to a person’s subconscious mind and they can reveal the individual’s unconscious desires, thoughts and motivations.
Freud had his perspectives and ideas on the occurrence of dreams, but apart from these perspectives, there are various other theories on why people dream, and some of these ideas behind the occurrence of dreams are:
● Memory consolidation: Dreams help to consolidate memories, especially during REM sleep. The brain's activity while dreaming is similar to processing the memories whilst you are awake.
● Increase in dopamine and acetylcholine levels: During REM sleep, the levels of dopamine and acetylcholine Increases, which leads to hallucinations.
● Emotional processing: It is believed that dreams help you process and manage your emotions. That is why at times when you are stressed or anxious, you tend to have vivid dreams, and sometimes even nightmares.
● Sorting through thoughts are feelings: This is another theory behind why dreams occur. It is often believed that dreams help you sort through your complicated thoughts and feelings.
● Blocking of stimuli: Dreams can help the brain block the stimuli that can interfere with your memory and learning.
How long does a dream last?
The longevity of dreams can vary. They can last for a few seconds or even for about 20-30 minutes. Sometimes people tend to remember their dreams when they are awakened during the REM phase. Some studies also reveal that an average person has about three to five dreams per night, and some may have even seven. But these dreams are often forgotten.
