According to the National Sleep Survey, more than a third of us are experiencing more vivid dreams than usual. That's perhaps no surprise as dream states are closely linked to what is going on during the day. And what is going on during the day is pretty confusing at the moment.
What's the most common lockdown dream?
It seems dreaming of an ex-partner is number one. Searches on Google asking what that dream means are up by 2,450% according to digital marketing agency AGY47. Not sure if that counts as being unfaithful, though probably best not mention it to your wife/husband/dashing lover/milkman.
So what does it mean?
It doesn't necessarily mean you want to demand a divorce and run away with your ex. Dreams expert Marilyn Devonish says: “Dreaming of your ex could be metaphorically dreaming about times gone by, and sadness about losing those times." That would be the pubs being shut, then.
What else are we dreaming about?
The second most common lockdown dream was falling. This is commonly put down to people's fear of losing control or rising anxiety. Feelings that are all too common at the moment.
Teeth and hair traumas?
If you've dreamed that you are losing your teeth or hair you are not alone. Both have had a rise of 400% in online searches compared to this time last year. Devonish says: "Losing teeth and teeth falling out can be about scattering your energy, not fully understanding a situation or over talking and saying too much. Hair can symbolise our identity and even strength, so hair falling out can be a sign you are worried about losing part of your identity or power or feeling helpless.”
But I've have already lost my teeth and hair?
Ah, that's dreams for you. Mysterious blighters.
How do I ditch the dreams?
Your body has a natural time-keeping clock known as your circadian rhythm. Don't mess with it. One study noted that participants who had irregular sleeping patterns and went to bed late on the weekends reported poor sleep and more vivid dreams. Go to bed at the same time and get up each day at the same time.
Sunny side up
Natural sunlight or bright light during the day helps keep your circadian rhythm healthy. This improves daytime energy, as well as nighttime sleep quality and duration. Oh, and avoid phones and computers late at night.
Beware Sleeping Beauty?
Too much sleep can be as bad as too little. It leaves you lethargic and woozy. Look at Sleeping Beauty, she slept for 100 years in the fairy tale. We can only imagine what her dreams must have been like.
GARRY SCOTT
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