Dreams and Health: Sleep Yourself Happy | Valking
Dreams and Health: How Dreaming Contributes to a Happier Life
A healthier life starts with a good night's sleep
Did you know that dreams directly impact your mental health and happiness? Every night when you sleep, your brain has the opportunity to process emotions, organize memories, and form new insights. In this blog post from Valking Beddengoed, you'll discover how dreams contribute to a healthier and happier life—and how you can positively influence the quality of your dreams.
What exactly are dreams?
Dreams occur during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep , the most active phase of your sleep cycle. During this phase, your body is deeply relaxed, while your brain is intensely active. During a dream, you see vivid images, feel emotions, and even hear sounds—as if you're in a movie where you have no control. A dream often feels long, but rarely lasts longer than 20 minutes.
Why are dreams important for your health?
Dreams play a crucial role in emotional processing and stress regulation . After a night of sufficient REM sleep, you often feel refreshed, calmer, and clearer. This is no coincidence: during your dreams, your brain processes the impressions, stimuli, and feelings from the previous day.
Do you get irritated or tired easily during the day? Chances are your sleep quality—and therefore your dream sleep—isn't optimal. Also read our blog about restless sleep for additional tips.
Tips for better dreams and deeper sleep
You can't directly control dreams, but you can create the conditions for restful REM sleep. Here are our proven tips:
1. Maintain a consistent sleep pattern
Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. This helps your body get into a natural sleep rhythm, giving the REM phase sufficient time.
2. Create a comfortable sleeping environment
Invest in a soft duvet , breathable bedding, and comfortable pajamas. Scents like lavender, laundry perfume, or incense can promote relaxation. By using these scents regularly, your brain automatically associates them with tranquility.
3. Avoid screens before bed
Blue light from phones, tablets, and TVs disrupts the production of melatonin—the sleep hormone. Put your screens away at least an hour before bedtime and choose a book or relaxing music.
4. Prepare your brain for the night
Keeping a journal, taking a short walk, or meditating helps you release stress. This gives your brain fewer loose ends to sort out during your dreams.
5. Limit alcohol and sleeping pills
Alcohol and heavy medications reduce the depth of your sleep. This causes you to miss important REM phases and therefore the positive effects of dreaming.
6. Prevent nightmares by processing emotions
Nightmares often arise from unresolved emotions like fear or sadness. By consciously dealing with your feelings during the day, you can improve the quality of your dreams. Read our blog on reducing nightmares for deeper insights.
Dreams: Essential for a Healthy and Happy Life
Dreams aren't idle fantasies, but an important part of your mental well-being . During sleep, emotions are processed, memories are strengthened, and stress is reduced. By ensuring a good night's sleep, you give yourself the chance for a fresh start every day.
At Valking Beddengoed, we believe a good night's sleep starts with the right products. Not sure which duvet or pillow is right for you? Contact our specialists—we're happy to help you achieve carefree nights full of rest and sweet dreams.
