Chapter 19 – “The Nature of Dreams” – The Sanctuary of Self by Ralph M. Lewis

1. Some authorities on psychology suggest that the concept of the soul or inner self arose from our ancient ancestors’ ability to dream. Why might that be, and do you agree with this speculation?
   
   
2. The author tells us that dreams might be “one of the oldest mysteries.” He goes on to further state that many superstitions about dreaming arose as a result, some of which persist today. Can you think of any?
   
   
3. Currently, we understand that images, persons, and actions in our dreams are usually symbolic. What is meant by that statement?
   
   
4. If you agree that most dreams are symbolic, have you analyzed your own dream symbols or have you relied on other sources to interpret your dreams according to suggested archetypes (universal symbols)? Do you believe you or others are better qualified to interpret your dreams?
   
   
5. The author explains that many of our dreams are the result of “sensory stimulation” while we are sleeping, such as hearing a sound or sheets being wrapped too tightly. Can you share any examples from your own experience?
   
   
6. The author explains such dreams as the mind’s inability to link or integrate ideas during sleep—a state of consciousness which he calls “low-integration,” and thus dreams may seem illogical—that is, the dream content does not reflect a logical cause. Therefore, we may find many of our dreams disturbing due to their illogical nature. Do you agree, and what is your experience in this regard?
   
   
7. Other than sensory stimulation during sleep, the author explains that some dream content may come from emotions like fear, anxiety, or hope. Do you agree?
   
   
8. The author suggests that we can incorporate subconscious or suppressed emotion, memories, and other content into our dreams, events that may have occurred during earlier experiences, perhaps even from childhood, some of which may keep recurring during dreams. Has this been your experience as well?
   
   
9. The author uses an example of lived experience, like all the sensory and emotional sensations had when entering a sacred place like a temple, cathedral, or other building. He explains that even one such detail had during waking consciousness can evoke an entire complex of sensations and imagery of a similar place while we are asleep—that is, the part stimulates an experience of the whole. Have you had such dreams?
   
   
10. The author also suggests that more experimentation is needed to confirm the following theory: “That which produces the greatest emotional reaction makes the most lasting impression in the subconscious mind.” He suggests that such experiences create unpleasant but also pleasant dreams. Do you agree based on your own experience?
    
    
11. In reflecting upon this chapter, are you now more interested in analyzing your dreams, and would you consider keeping a dream journal, if you don’t already do so? What advice might you offer to those who have trouble remembering their own dreams?
    
    
12. Although not covered in this chapter, there are medical and some neurological conditions that can result in sleep disturbances and even unpleasant dreams. If that is the case, would you consider consulting a professional for advice or assistance?
    
    
13. Without discussing the subject of the next chapter “Prediction,” can you relate to the concept of initiation during sleep or to the thought that some dreamers may be sensitive to psychic or other impressions while dreaming?