Have you ever had a dream where you try to do something, but can’t? Maybe you are trying to speak, run, or fly, but you are unable to do what you want, and you don’t know why. Why do these dreams happen? And how can we work through them so that we can do whatever we want in our dreams?
Why Are We Unable To Do What We Want In Dreams Sometimes?
One theory suggests that these limitations may stem from our conscious mind trying to make sense of the chaotic and unpredictable nature of dreams. Our conscious mind may impose limitations as a way to maintain some level of control in an otherwise uncontrollable environment.
And sometimes, our subconscious mind may limit what we can do in a dream because of our fears and anxieties. For example, if we have a fear of heights, our subconscious may prevent us from being able to fly in a dream.
Those with cognitive or physical impairments may find themselves limited in their ability to fully immerse themselves in the dream world and explore the endless possibilities that it offers.
Conditions such as dementia, brain injury, or paralysis can all impact an individual’s ability to control their dreams or even remember them after waking.
During lucid dreaming, slipping out of lucidity or lacking the ability to maintain control can also cause limitations in dream actions.
6 Ways To Move Past These Limitations In Dreams
1. Set an intention before going to bed
One way to combat these types of dreams is by setting an intention before you go to bed. Setting an intention can help you focus on what you want to achieve and how you want to feel.
An example intention is “I will be in control of my actions and emotions in my dreams tonight.”
By doing this, you create a positive space in your mind, which can translate into your dreams. You also let your subconscious mind know that you want to experience anything without limitations.
When your mind believes it, instead of feeling limited in your dream, you can feel empowered, alert, and fully in control of your actions.
2. Practice lucid dreaming
Lucid dreaming is when you become aware that you are in a dream and can control your actions within the dream. This practice takes time to master, but it can be an effective way to overcome any limitations you may experience in your dreams.
For instance, if you are unable to do something normal, such as talk or move, in a dream, this can cause lucidity in your dream, and you can remind yourself that you are capable of doing anything you want in your dreams.
3. Confront your fears
As previously mentioned, our subconscious may limit us in our dreams as a way to protect us from facing our fears. However, by consciously confronting and processing these fears, we can decrease their hold on us and potentially eliminate them altogether.
If you can’t figure out what the fear causing the issue is, try thinking about what the dream represents. For instance, if you could speak while trying to ask for help, then you may have a fear of asking for help.
4. Try relaxation techniques
Often, limitations in dreams can be a result of stress or anxiety. Therefore, incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine can help reduce these factors in both your concious and subconscious mind and create a more peaceful state of mind, leading to less restricted dreams.
5. Keep a dream journal
Keeping a dream journal can also help in identifying any patterns or triggers that may be causing limitations in your dreams. By recording and reflecting on your dreams, you may gain insight into the root of these limitations and find ways to overcome them.
6. Experiment with different visualization techniques
Visualization is a powerful tool for creating a positive mindset, both in your waking life and in your dreams. By using imagery and positive affirmations, you can train your mind to believe that anything is possible and break free from any limitations in your dreams.
