De-stress before bed to avoid recurring nightmares – how your state of mind is affecting what you dream.
A new study by the University of Turku shows that people with more peace of mind in the waking state have more positive dreams, whereas those with more anxiety in the waking state have more negative dreams.
“Peace of mind is a state of inner peace and harmony, a more complex and durable state of well-being traditionally associated with happiness in the Eastern cultures,” says Pilleriin Sikka, Doctoral Candidate in Psychology at the University of Turku and Lecturer in Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Skövde.
“Even though it has rarely been directly measured in studies of well-being, in several philosophical traditions and spiritual approaches, peace of mind has always been regarded as central to human flourishing.” From the study, the researchers propose that individuals with higher levels of peace of mind may be better able to regulate their emotions not only in the waking state but also during dreaming, whereas the opposite may be true for those with higher levels of anxiety.
Cultivating inner peace, particularly when going through a challenging time of life, isn’t always easy. Practicing mindfulness and meditation, taking a walk through nature, rest and relaxation, and getting professional help when needed can assist.
Meditation teacher Tom Cronin, shares his top tips for unwinding, creating inner calm and finding a peaceful state of mind.
