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Science studies dreams and dreaming from many angles.
Some research focuses on the bio-physiology of dreaming and sleep and
what influences these processes, while other research looks into the
content of dreams and what influences them. Some scientists are
interested in why we dream, other in how we dream, and still others on
the functions that dreams serve. Some science equates REM sleep with
dreaming and studies REM sleep in animals, infants and other groups not
normally able to give dream reports. Some scientists study how damaged
brains change and effect the way we dream. Others study our behavior in
our dreams.
Science does not really know why we dream, but there are many theories
which each have their own supporters. The theories range from dreams
being a meaningless left-over like the appendix to dreaming serving a
critical role in the cyclical structure and maintenance of physical and
psychological well being.
Here are some of the more popular science theories on dreaming:
1. To restore our body and mind.
2. To help with learning and memory.
3. To keep the brain at the right level of awareness/rest during sleep.
4. To allow the mind to handle disturbances in the night without waking
up.
5. To keep our sense of self and wholeness through sleep.
6. To allow ourselves some time to explore new and unusual areas of
ourselves.
7. To resolve conflicts that occur during the day.
8. To contextualize emotions from waking.
Researchers also notes that dreams do different things at different
times in our life. During fetal development, dreams seem to be hard-wiring
the brain, while later in life, they seem to be more involved with soft-wiring.
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