There are two main ways to start having a lucid dream:

• Realize that you are in a dream whilst you are actually dreaming. Then take control of the dream.


• Go straight from a waking state into a lucid dream.

Just like riding a bicycle, you shouldn't expect to start lucid dreaming and immediately become an expert. You may have times when things don't go the way you want them to - don't let these small setbacks put you off. They're just part of the learning process.

Once you get the hang of it, either of these are possible. Even though they may seem like an impossibility at the moment.

Start by just recalling your dreams. Keep a journal by your bed. Start writing down your recollection of your dreams as soon as you wake up. That really does mean immediately - especially at first, our dream recall fades rapidly. So get writing as soon as you wake up.

After a few days of keeping your dreams journal, you should find that your recollection of your dreams starts to get better. Once this happens, you're ready to move on to the next stage.

Start noticing things in your dreams that are definitely something that doesn't happen in real life. Those Superman or Wonderwoman powers, for instance.

These will be some of your cues that you are dreaming. Because if you don't know you're dreaming, how can you expect to control that dream?

After a while, you'll begin to notice recurring themes in your dreams.

Gradually, you'll start to recognize when you're dreaming. Don't work too hard on this - dreams aren't always easy to catch. If you work too hard at it, they'll fade away fast. Don't panic when this happens and don't get annoyed with yourself. Just learn not to try as hard next time. You'll soon get the hang of it and start catching yourself dreaming more often.

Once you can realize you are dreaming and not scare the dream away, you're ready for the most exciting step: controlling your dreams. The hard work is over and the fun is about to begin!

Most people find that it's useful to have some help when you learn how to lucid dream. Check out one of the best tutorials I've found on lucid dreaming. This kit takes you through the art of lucid dreaming, step by step. Within a week, you'll be lucid dreaming like an expert!

Like most hobbies, learning how to lucid dream is just the first stage.

You've probably looked at the things that you've written in your dream journal and thought to yourself "What on earth is that all about?"

You probably don't want to visit a shrink just to find out the meaning of your dreams.

So how can you find out more about dream meanings and interpret the dreams you're having?

It's important that whoever you turn to for your lucid dream interpretation knows what they're talking about. That may sound blindingly obvious, but many people have been led in the wrong direction by well-meaning interpretations that are just so far off the mark they're as unreal the dreams themselves.

So you need to get hold of an accurate dream interpretation kit!

So whether your dreams involve being chased (on this planet or off it), flying through the air, chatting with aliens or near enough anything else then it's time to do yourself a favor and start interpreting.

Once you start, I think you'll find it a fascinating insight into your everyday life.

Find out more about dream meanings here.