Induction of lucid dreams: A systematic review of evidence

Abstract

In lucid dreams the dreamer is aware of dreaming and often able to influence the ongoing dream content. Lucid dreaming is a learnable skill and a variety of techniques is suggested for lucid dreaming induction. This systematic review evaluated the evidence for the effectiveness of induction techniques. A comprehensive literature search was carried out in biomedical databases and specific resources. Thirty-five studies were included in the analysis (11 sleep laboratory and 24 field studies), of which 26 employed cognitive techniques, 11 external stimulation and one drug application. The methodological quality of the included studies was relatively low. None of the induction techniques were verified to induce lucid dreams reliably and consistently, although some of them look promising. On the basis of the reviewed studies, a taxonomy of lucid dream induction methods is presented. Several methodological issues pertaining to both studies reviewed and lucid dream induction research in general are discussed.

Testing the involvement of the prefrontal cortex in lucid dreaming: A tDCS study

“…While this causal connection is important on the neurophysiological level, due to the small effects, tDCS might not be a promising tool for lucid dream induction on a practical level (Noreika et al, 2010). For practical purposes, other lucid dream induction methods can be suggested (Stumbrys, Erlacher, Schädlich, & Schredl, 2012). Future studies could target other brain areas, such as the precuneus, to increase the probability of lucid dreaming, as well as higher stimulation intensities (e.g.…”

Effectiveness of motor practice in lucid dreams: a comparison with physical and mental practice

“…The participants could use any technique to induce lucid dreams (cf. Stumbrys, Erlacher, Schädlich, & Schredl, 2012), with the exception of drug intake. After becoming lucid in a dream, they had to start immediately practicing the task (repeating the memorised sequence) and continue the practice for as long as possible.…”

Exploring the role of need for cognition, field independence and locus of control on the incidence of lucid dreams during a 12-week induction study.

“…Lucid dreaming induction techniques have been reviewed for their efficacy by Stumbrys et al, (2012) who argue that of the many available, three cognitively-based induction techniques appear promising methods. These are; the Mnemonic Induction of Lucid Dreams (e.g.…”

“…Edelstein & LaBerge, 1992;LaBerge et al, 1994). The evidence from Stumbrys et al, (2012) review implies that combined techniques may result in higher reported success rates for the induction of lucid dreams, though these techniques are not without issue (See Stumbrys et al, 2012) it appears the wisest approach for an induction study to adopt.…”