Why Do We Dream

When you fall asleep, your brain does not shut off. It stays busy, and sometimes it creates dreams. Dreams are images, sounds, and stories that play in your mind while you sleep. Scientists have many ideas about why we dream, but there is still a lot of mystery.

When Dreams Happen

Most vivid dreams happen during a stage of sleep called REM sleep. REM stands for rapid eye movement. During REM sleep, your eyes move back and forth quickly under your eyelids. Your brain is very active, almost as active as when you are awake. You go through several REM cycles each night.

Why We Might Dream

Scientists have several ideas about why we dream. Dreams may help the brain process memories and emotions from the day. They might help us practice solving problems. Some researchers think dreams help the brain sort and organize information. Others believe dreams have no specific purpose at all.

Fun Facts

• Most people have about four to six dreams every night, but forget most of them.
• Animals dream too. Dogs often twitch and move their paws while dreaming.
• Some people can learn to control their dreams. This is called lucid dreaming.

Did You Know?

Within five minutes of waking up, you forget about 50 percent of your dream. Within ten minutes, you forget about 90 percent. That is why dreams are so hard to remember!