In the realm of lucid dreaming, we often anticipate having control over our dreamscapes, orchestrating scenarios as we wish. However, there are instances when our dreams take the reins, leading us on unexpected journeys. While initially frustrating, these uncontrolled lucid dreams can bear profound insights and lessons. But the question still remains, is it a lucid dream if you can’t control it?
Some People Think Yes And Some People Think No
There is no definitive answer to this question as it is subjective.
Some people may consider it a lucid dream if they are aware that they are dreaming and can still maintain some level of control over the dream, even if it is limited.
Others may not consider it a true lucid dream unless they have complete control over the dreamscape and can manipulate it at will.
Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide whether or not a dream meets their personal definition of a lucid dream.
By Definition, You Are Having A Lucid Dream
However, the definition of a lucid dream is usually based on the dreamer being aware that they are dreaming and having some degree of control over the dream.
So, if you are aware that you are dreaming but cannot control the dream, it is still generally considered a lucid dream. Even though you have no control, you know that your subconscious is creating the dreamscape and therefore you are lucid in your dream.
You may not have as much control as you would like, but the fact that you are aware of the dream and can still influence it to some degree is what makes it a lucid dream.
Why Would You Not Have Control In A Lucid Dream?
Your Subconscious Wants You To Know Something Without Interference
One possible reason for being aware you are dreaming but not being able to control it is that your subconscious wants to show you something important, and it doesn’t want you playing with the images and sounds that it’s showing you.
For example, here’s Mark’s story:
I was floating in a dark space. I knew I was dreaming, but I had no control over the dream. Suddenly, a bright light appeared and I found myself in a hospital room. There was a woman in the bed next to me, and she was crying. I knew exactly what I needed to say to help her. I went to comfort her, but she pushed me away and said “you don’t understand, you can’t help me.” I felt horrible that she wouldn’t let me help her. I tried to change the scenario of the dream knowing that I was dreaming, but I couldn’t. I just spent time staring at her realizing there was nothing I could do to help her.
When I woke up, I was pissed off. I wanted to do something important in my lucid dream, not stare at someone crying that I couldn’t help. But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that the dream had been trying to tell me something.
In my waking life, I had been going through some issues and had been pushing my loved ones away. All they wanted to do was help me, and I wouldn’t allow them. I thought that if I could solve my problems on my own then everything would be okay. But the dream gave me a new perspective. It was telling me that it’s okay to let other people in, that they might be able to help me more than I could help myself.
In other words, if you know that you are dreaming, but you can’t control the dream, pay attention to what’s happening in the dream and what your subconscious mind might be trying to tell you
You Want To Enjoy The Experience And Relinquish Control
It’s possible that you actually don’t want to have any control in the dream.
Lucid dreaming can be an incredibly exhilarating and empowering experience. The ability to have complete control over your dreams can give you a sense of freedom and power that is unmatched in waking life. However, it’s important to remember that not every lucid dream has to be about control.
Sometimes it’s just fun to chill out and go along for the ride. You can let your subconscious take the reins and see where it takes you. Who knows, you might end up experiencing something completely unexpected and amazing.
You Are Making A Lot Of Mistakes In Your Lucid Dreams
We’ve talked about this before. There are a lot of things that you can do in your waking life and in your lucid dreams that can cause you to lose control or cut them short.
Read: Avoid These 10 Mistakes For Longer, More Vivid Lucid Dreams
The Benefits Of Having A Lucid Dream But Not Controlling It
While having complete control over your dreams can be exciting, there are also benefits to just letting go and experiencing the dream without controlling it.
For one, it can give you a glimpse into your subconscious mind and provide valuable insights and self-reflection. It can also help you let go of any fears or anxieties you may have about losing control, as you learn to trust in your subconscious to guide the dream.
Additionally, not having control in a lucid dream can be a great opportunity for creativity and spontaneity. You never know what amazing experiences or adventures your subconscious will take you on if you just let go and enjoy the ride.
Can You Gain Control In A Lucid Dream If You Have No Control?
Yes, it is possible to gain control in a lucid dream even if you initially have no control. This is your mind and your dreamscape. You have power over it.
The key is to stay calm and focused, and to use techniques such as visualization or verbal commands to assert your control over the dream. It may also help to remind yourself that you are in a dream and that anything is possible. With practice and patience, you can gain more control over your lucid dreams and shape them into whatever you want.
Techniques For Gaining Control In A Lucid Dream
If you do want to have more control in your lucid dreams, there are various techniques that can help you achieve this. Some popular ones include:
- Visualizing – This involves imagining what you want to happen in the dream and visualizing it as vividly as possible.
- Verbal commands – Similar to affirmations, repeating a phrase such as “I am in control” or “This is my dream” can help reinforce your power over the dream.
- Stabilizing techniques – Sometimes, just focusing on stabilizing the dream can also give you more control. This can include rubbing your hands together or spinning in circles.
And sometimes it’s just about practice. The more you have lucid dreams and try to control them, the better you will become at it.
Embracing The Uncontrollable
However, it’s also important to remember that not being able to control your dreams can also be a blessing in disguise. It allows for unexpected and spontaneous experiences that can sometimes be even more exciting than what you had planned. So don’t be too hard on yourself if you can’t control your lucid dreams all the time. Embrace the unpredictable and see where it takes you.
