Day Dreaming and Lucid Dreaming in Meditation

[Jitendra Hydonus]

Hypnagogia like states during meditation are somewhat common because often we have lucid dreams during meditation. Lucid Dreaming has some similar features accept that we are completely aware of our thoughts and dreams during meditation which is different than unconscious sleep.

A lucid dream is a type of dream in which the dreamer becomes aware that they are dreaming while dreaming. During a lucid dream, the dreamer may gain some amount of control over the dream characters, narrative, or environment. Lucid dreaming has been studied and reported for many years. Prominent figures from ancient to modern times have been fascinated by lucid dreams and have sought ways to better understand their causes and purpose.

Since we are aware of such experiences during sleep I also find times of  being aware of such experiences during meditation.

[Jitendra Hydonus]

Lucid dreaming
Lucid dreaming, the ability to become aware that one is dreaming while still in the dream state, is a phenomenon that can be cultivated through meditation.

What is the difference between daydreaming and meditating? Many beginner meditators may ask this question. It seems logical that sitting quietly and letting your mind wander would be a way of going inward, but you should pay attention to your intentions.

See this article by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar of IBN Live about demystifying the art of meditation. It discusses the difference between daydreaming and meditation, and tells us that, in meditation, we must have clear focus.

Total rest happens in meditation. And meditation happens only when the mind settles down. How to settle this mind? By understanding the aim of life and having a clear focus. What is focus? Being fulfilled in the moment, being centered, looking to the highest and remaining in that space of peace, is focus. If there is no peace, there is no focus.

Turning this around, and you will realize that if you focus, you attain peace. When you are not happy in the present moment, then you desire something. Desire simply means that the present moment is not all right. This causes tension in the mind; every desire causes feverishness. In this state, meditation cannot happen.

You may sit with your eyes closed, but the desires keep arising, thoughts keep arising; you fool yourself into thinking that you are meditating, but actually you are daydreaming!

When daydreaming, you allow your mind to lead you. You may be fantasizing about your future or remembering a time in your past. In meditation, however, you keep a focused awareness in the present, and dismiss the tangent thoughts in your mind. That’s not to say you shouldn’t daydream. Daydreaming is a fantastic way to inspire yourself – just don’t do it while you’re meditating!

https://aboutmeditation.com/whats-the-difference-between-daydreaming-and-meditating/