Why some people remember dreams (and others don't)

According to a fascinating theory, the dreams we recall do not originate directly from REM sleep, but seem to emerge when we wake up.

There are several phases within NREM sleep. They are often represented with numbers 1, 2, and 3. They gradually deepen with time. During these phases, the amount of delta waves on an EEG, a tool used to analyze brain activity, increase. Delta waves help create a deeper, more restorative sleep for the body. This increase in delta waves also helps the body prepare for upcoming physical changes like puberty.

There are various stages of sleep, including a state of deep, slow-wave sleep and REM sleep. Interestingly, dreams do not necessarily only occur while an individual is in REM sleep.

Factors influencing dream recall

Theories on dream recall

A fascinating theory suggests that the dreams we recall are not directly derived from REM sleep. Instead, they manifest upon waking, when the logical parts of the brain, now active, attempt to impose order and significance on the fantastical products of our REM sleep.

The ability to recall dreams relies on a delicate balance between different sleep stages, the timing and frequency of waking up, certain brain activities during sleep, and individual characteristics. This intricacy accounts for why some individuals consistently remember their dreams, whereas others hardly ever do.

(MH with LM / Picture: Rafal Jedrzejek via Unsplash)

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