Why We Dream: A Scientific Explanation and Interesting Facts

Introduction: The Mysterious World of Dreams
Dreams are one of the most mysterious phenomena of human life. We spend about a third of our lives in sleep, and a large part of this time is accompanied by dreams. But why do we dream? What do they mean? And can they be interpreted? In this article, we will look at scientific explanations of the nature of dreams, drawing on research in psychology and neuroscience.


1. What are dreams from a scientific point of view?
Dreams are subjective experiences that occur during sleep, especially in the REM phase. During this period, brain activity resembles wakefulness, although the body remains stationary. Scientists believe that dreams play an important role in processing information, emotions and memory.
Interesting fact: We have 4 to 6 dreams every night, but we only remember a small fraction of them.



2. Why do we dream?
There are several theories that explain the nature of dreams:

• Information processing theory: Dreams help the brain organize and analyze the information received during the day.
• Emotional regulation: Dreams allow us to “work through” emotions, reducing stress and anxiety.
• Evolutionary theory: Dreams may have served as a “training” mechanism for the brain, helping ancient humans prepare for danger.

Research suggests that dreams may be associated with memory strengthening and learning. For example, students who sleep better remember the material.


3. REM phase: When dreams are born
Most dreams occur during the REM phase, which is characterized by rapid eye movements and increased brain activity. During this period, the brain processes emotions and memories, creating vivid and often strange dreams.
Interesting fact: If you wake a person during the REM phase, they are more likely to remember their dream.


4. What do dreams mean?
Dream interpretation is a field that lies at the intersection of science and art. Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, believed that dreams were “the royal road to the unconscious.” He claimed they reflected hidden desires and conflicts.
Modern psychology offers a broader perspective. For example, Carl Jung believed that dreams are a way of communicating with the collective unconscious, and their symbols have a universal meaning.





5. Interesting facts about dreams

• Blind people dream too: Those who lose their sight after birth see visual images. Those born blind “see” dreams through sounds, smells, and tactile sensations.
• Animals also dream. Studies show that many mammals, including dogs and cats, go through the REM phase.
• Sleepwalking is not related to dreams: Sleepwalking occurs during deep sleep, when dreams are almost absent.

6. How to remember and interpret dreams?
If you want to better understand your dreams, try the following tips:

• Keep a dream diary: Write down your dreams immediately after waking up while they are still fresh in your memory.
• Pay attention to the emotions: Often, emotions in dreams are more important than specific events.
• Look for recurring themes: Repeated dreams may indicate unresolved problems or important life issues.

Conclusion: Dreams as a window into our subconscious
Dreams remain one of the most fascinating mysteries of the human brain. They help us process emotions, strengthen memory and even find creative solutions. Although science does not yet fully understand the nature of dreams, one thing is clear: dreams are not just random images, but an important part of our mental life.
Listen to your dreams, write them down and reflect on their meaning. They may reveal something new about themselves and the world around them.