Author Ryan Hurd on Paleolithic Mind, Polyphasic Cultures, Lucid Nightmares and More

05/14/19 • 98 min

This interview with noted researcher, author, and veteran lucid dreamer Ryan Hurd covers a wide range of fascinating material. We discuss the “archeology of consciousness,” and what Ryan refers to as the Paleolithic Mind. We talk about polyphasic cultures that honor dreams, and the limitations of our monophasic view that colonizes and dismisses states of consciousness it can’t fully experience. The conversation then turns to some of the shadow sides of lucid dreaming, Ryan’s expertise with lucid nightmares, and how to work with fear – seeing it as a good sign. “We have to go to the underworld to enter the upper-world.” We talk about sexuality and dreams, using the “safe sex” of lucid dreams to transform the heat of passion into the warmth of compassion, and how to work with this connecting energy in what Buddhists call “the realm of desire.” Ryan’s intelligence, scholarship, and passion for lucid dreaming is clearly evident in this rich romp.

We then turn to his book on sleep paralysis, and explore the nocebo effect, “ghost rape,” REM Behavioral Sleep Disorder, and how this paralysis is connected to visitations – both nefarious and angelic – as well as alien abduction. We talk about the promising future of lucid dreaming, as well as the concerns. Ryan then shares his view on all the electronic gadgets, apps, and drug supplements (including the results from his recent study on galantamine) that are designed to enhance lucid dreaming. Are there any “magic bullets” on the horizon? We close with a discussion about his go-to methods for inducing lucidity, and how to work with discouragement. Ryan’s rigorous but open-minded approach to lucid dreaming, fueled by deep personal experience, makes him uniquely qualified to address the wide scope of nocturnal practice.

Previous Episode

Lucid Dreaming Author Robert Waggoner on Dream Events That Led Him to Deep Psycho-Spiritual Growth

In this delightful interview you’ll get a taste for why Robert Waggoner is one of the leading voices of lucid dreaming in the West. For over forty years Robert has logged over 1000 lucid dreams, and the stories he shares are just amazing. This interview reveals the spirit of proper sharing, and why our discussion forum is integral to Night Club.

Robert fearlessly and generously talks about dream events that “cracked open my world,” and led him to deep psycho-spiritual growth. So much of what he shares is resonant with Buddhist dream and sleep yoga – which is noteworthy because he was not a Buddhist when he had these powerful experiences. Robert aspires to use lucid dreaming “to go beyond lucid dreaming, to discover the nature of reality.” The cast of characters he runs into in his dreams, and then in real life, will send a chill up your spine. We talk about fear, sleep yoga, zones of learning, dreams of premonition, going to the energy in your dreams, and even a dose of bardo yoga when Robert shares that in order to go deeper, “I had to agree to cease to be.”

My conversation with Robert Waggoner continues as we discuss his “go-to” methods for inducing lucidity, which in addition to the wake-and-back-to-bed method is largely about creating a lucid mindset. Robert shares his advice for how to work with discouragement, and suggests being “playfully persistent,” relating to the entire lucidity project as a game. In other words, lighten up, relax and have fun — “Loosen up dude.” Take a break. We talk about the importance of honoring and valuing our non-lucid dreams and their symbolism, the relationship of lucid dreaming to hypnosis, and then how to work with fear – which can subliminally derail our lucid dreams. The conversation then turns to how lucid dreaming can be used for healing, with some remarkable stories that support this claim.

Robert is that rare being who has dedicated his life to lucid dreaming, and his passion for this topic is contagious.

Next Episode

Kristen LaMarca PhD on the Use of Lucid Dreaming Therapy for a Wide Range of Psychological Conditions

Join Andrew as he talks to the psychologist and lucid dream therapist Kristen LaMarca as they explore a host of fascinating topics that include:

Lucid dream nightmare therapy, sleep state misperception, imagery rehearsal therapy, PTSD, alternative world syndrome, the importance of proper “holding environments,” and the type of person who is amenable to these unique forms of dream therapy.

What is lucid dream therapy and how does it work? Are there any contraindications? What are its applications and limitations?

Dr. LaMarca shares stories from her extensive experience as an elite lucid dreamer, as well as case histories from her clients. She talks about her recent scientific publications, and her long-time research with the Lucidity Institute, under the guidance of Dr. Stephen LaBerge.

MILD, WILD, and DILD induction methods are discussed, along with Kristen’s go-to techniques, how to handle discouragement, and how to work with insomnia.

You will quickly see why she is one of the exciting new voices in the therapeutic applications of lucid dreaming, and a premiere guide for showing people how to have lucid dreams.