Yes, you can control your dreams, but not in every instance. The ability to consciously influence the narrative and environment of your dreams is called lucid dreaming.
What is Lucid Dreaming?
Lucid dreaming happens during REM sleep. It's a state where you become aware you're dreaming, and you can often, but not always, steer the direction of the dream's storyline and setting. [This ability is frequently mentioned across various sources](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323077, https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-to-control-dreams/, https://www.reddit.com/r/Dreams/comments/18jp4sk/is_it_possible_to_control_the_dream_if_yes_how/). Many individuals report successfully controlling their dreams during lucid dreaming episodes.
How to Potentially Achieve Control:
While not everyone can effortlessly control their dreams, techniques exist that may increase the likelihood of experiencing lucid dreams and influencing them:
- Reality testing: Regularly throughout the day, ask yourself if you are dreaming. This practice can carry over into your sleep.
- Mnemonics and dream journaling: Keeping a dream journal and actively remembering dreams can help you recognize dream signs and increase awareness during sleep.
Therapeutic Applications:
Lucid dreaming has therapeutic applications. For instance, “lucid dreaming therapy” utilizes this skill to manage recurring nightmares and PTSD by allowing the dreamer to change the course of a negative dream. This therapeutic application is supported by research.
Important Note: Not All Dreams are Controllable
It's crucial to understand that not all dreams are lucid. Many dreams unfold naturally and unconsciously, outside of our direct control. Some individuals may believe they control their dreams when in actuality, they're simply observing or passively experiencing the dream's narrative. [This distinction is highlighted in several sources](https://www.quora.com/Do-people-that-say-they-can-control-their-dreams-REALLY-control-their-dreams-or-are-they-just-dreaming-that-they-can-control-their-dreams, https://www.quora.com/Do-you-control-your-dreams-or-do-the-dreams-control-you).
