Psychology 101: Why Do I Keep Having the Same Dream?
Sleep helps your body and mind recharge. This essential downtime does not only ensure that your brain functions accordingly, but it also promotes your overall health. However, the screenings in your nighttime theater may not always allow for a good night’s sleep.
As a matter of fact, you may be experiencing recurring dreams. Perhaps they have just started surfacing, or you have had them for a while. Either way, if you are wondering, why do I keep having the same dream over and over again, you have landed on the right page. And with that said, here are some interesting psychological facts regarding recurring dreams.
Are Recurring Dreams Common?
Recurring dreams (and nightmares) are not an uncommon phenomenon. They often begin at a young age, and their occurrence is more prevalent in females. Nevertheless, about two-thirds of people experience them during their lifetime.
Regardless of their integrity, recurring dreams do not have an expiration date. They may carry on for years or come to a sudden stop. In fact, even if they do, they can sometimes return at a later point in time. But what does all of this mean, anyway?
What Is the Meaning of Recurring Dreams?
By and large, recurring dreams usually indicate the presence of persistent, unresolved, or ongoing conflict in one’s life. However, they are also associated with signs of abuse, unmet needs, and past trauma.
Although dream patterns do not follow any preset rules, recurring dreams tend to have common themes. While some are self-explanatory, others are harder to understand.
Common Themes in Recurring Dreams
No one person will have the exact same recurring dream as the other. Even so, research has shown that the most common themes include:
• Being assaulted, chased, or naked
• Being trapped or stuck
• Being unable to run
• Falling or flying
• Losing the ability to speak
• Losing control of a vehicle
• Losing teeth
• Missing a deadline or a test
• Moving in slow motion
With that in mind, gaining a better understanding of the theme and its consistency will contribute to the resolution of recurring dreams. That is to say, they can be addressed indirectly.
How to Resolve Recurring Dreams
If your recurring dream bears negative connotations, you need to take a closer look at the potential causes. To that end, some soul-searching may be in order.
Depending on its intensity, you can start by reducing stress in your life to the best of your extent. Afterward, you will want to explore and identify the roots of any unwanted emotions, unmet needs, and unresolved trauma.
Additionally, you will benefit from professional guidance if the still waters run deep. After all, a therapist can offer effective self-care strategies that will ultimately help resolve your internal and external conflict.
In conclusion, your recurring dream will stop making an appearance as soon as you address any underlying issues that may be causing it.
Dreams Are a Powerful Tool in Everyday Life
Current research shows that dreams affect our relationships and general behavior toward people who appear in them.
In other words, our take on reality is dependent on how skilled we are at detecting the validity of our behavioral patterns. In fact, a study published in 2011 can further attest to the intricate connection between our dreams and emotions.
For this and many other reasons, it is no stretch to say that dreams, recurring or otherwise, impact our day-to-day lives. Sometimes they pose a question, while other times — they present an answer.
In the long run, the only way to understand the question — why do I keep having the same dream is to know yourself first. Although it may be easier said than done, facing the suppressed feelings head-on will lessen their impact on both your dreams and your life.
So the next time your recurring dream graces you with its unyielding presence — take a long, hard look on the inside.
