THE PHYSIOLOGY OF DREAM

There are different conceptual theories about dreaming. In some quarters, dream is regarded as a means of communication between the mortals and the immortals. The popular biblical story of  "Joseph the dreamer" is a major reference point to the aforementioned view. However, it is expedient to see things also from the point of  view of science as the scripture also says that " all wisdom and understanding are hidden away in Christ Jesus"

The physiology of dreaming is a complex and multi-disciplinary field that involves the study of the brain, behavior, and consciousness. Although the exact scientific basis of dreaming is still not fully understood, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that dreams are an important aspect of brain function and play a critical role in the regulation of emotional and cognitive processes.

One of the main theories about the physiology of dreaming is the activation-synthesis theory, which suggests that dreams are the result of the brain's attempt to make sense of and integrate sensory information from the environment. According to this theory, when the brain is in the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep, it is highly active and generates random electrical and chemical signals that are interpreted as dream images, sounds, and emotions.

Another theory, the cognitive-neurobiological theory, suggests that dreams are the result of the brain's attempt to consolidate memories, regulate emotions, and solve problems. This theory is supported by studies that have shown that the brain areas involved in emotional processing, problem-solving, and memory consolidation are active during REM sleep and dreaming.

Research has also shown that the release of certain hormones, such as cortisol and growth hormone, is associated with dreaming. Cortisol is known to play a role in stress regulation, while growth hormone is involved in cell growth and repair. This suggests that dreams may serve a physiological function by helping the body to regulate hormones and maintain overall health.

READ ALSO: https://www.funmbat.com.ng/2021/04/sleep-paralysis-and-spirituality.html
 

About lucid dreaming, some people are able to have lucid dreams, where they are aware that they are dreaming and can control the dream. The exact mechanisms underlying lucid dreaming are not fully understood, but some research suggests that it may be related to changes in the activity of certain brain regions, such as the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for self-awareness and executive control

Nightmares are typically associated with negative emotional experiences and are more common during periods of stress or trauma. The exact physiological mechanisms underlying nightmares are not well understood, but some research suggests that they may be related to imbalances in the levels of certain neurotransmitters, such as cortisol, which is involved in the stress response.

In conclusion, while the exact scientific basis of dreaming is still not fully understood, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that dreaming plays a critical role in the regulation of emotional and cognitive processes and may serve a physiological function by helping the body to regulate hormones and maintain overall health. Further research is needed to fully understand the physiology of dreaming and its potential implications for human health and well-being.

See again in our next post. Bye