15: Problem-Solving in Dreams – Does “Sleeping on It” Really Work? cover art

15: Problem-Solving in Dreams – Does “Sleeping on It” Really Work?

15: Problem-Solving in Dreams – Does “Sleeping on It” Really Work?

Listen for free

View show details

About this listen

 This episode explores how dreams can contribute to creative problem-solving. During sleep, especially in REM, the brain loosens logical constraints and allows unusual connections to form, often leading to new insights. History offers famous examples—Kekulé’s vision of the benzene ring, Elias Howe’s sewing machine, and Paul McCartney’s “Yesterday.” Dreams aid problem-solving by freeing the mind from logic, processing emotions, and integrating memories. Techniques like dream incubation, journaling, and lucid dreaming can increase the chance of dream-inspired solutions. However, dreams are best at creative, open-ended challenges rather than logical or highly technical problems. Ultimately, the episode concludes that “sleeping on it” truly works, because dreams act as a creative laboratory where the brain experiments with ideas and emotions.
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.