Are you confused about WILD, DILD, and MILD in lucid dreaming?
Many beginners make two common mistakes: thinking they're all techniques, or not understanding how they relate as different types of lucid dreams.
This comprehensive guide will clear up these misconceptions and help you understand both the types of lucid dreams and the techniques used to achieve them.
Key Takeaways
WILD and DILD are types of lucid dreams
These types describe the different state a lucid dreams originates in
MILD is a technique used to induce these types of lucid dreams
Understanding both types and techniques is crucial for effective practice
Understanding Types of Lucid Dreams
There are two fundamental types of lucid dreams:
WILD (Wake-Initiated Lucid Dream)
A type of lucid dream where you maintain consciousness while transitioning directly from wakefulness into the dream state
You remain aware throughout the entire process of falling asleep
Often described as the most vivid type of lucid dream
Can be more challenging for beginners
DILD (Dream-Initiated Lucid Dream)
A type of lucid dream where you become lucid after the dream has already begun
More common and usually easier for beginners
Can occur spontaneously or through practiced techniques
Most people's first lucid dream is a DILD
Notice the word "initiated" in both terms. This describes how the lucid dream began, not how you achieved it.
Think of these as "routes" into lucidity - you're either entering directly from wakefulness (WILD) or becoming lucid within an existing dream (DILD).
Understanding Techniques: MILD and Beyond
In contrast to types of lucid dreams, techniques are the methods we use to induce them. The most well-known is:
MILD (Mnemonic Induction of Lucid Dreams)
A technique developed by Dr. Stephen LaBerge
Uses memory and intention to increase lucid dream likelihood
The phrase "induction of" tells us it's a technique
Can be used to achieve either type of lucid dream
Other popular techniques include:
Reality Testing
Wake Back to Bed (WBTB)
SSILD (Senses induced lucid dreams)
Cycle Adjustment Technique (CAT)
How Types and Techniques Work Together
Understanding the relationship between types and techniques is crucial:
1. Types are outcomes: WILD and DILD describe what kind of lucid dream you experience.
2. Techniques are methods: MILD and others are the tools you use to achieve these types.
For example:
You might use the MILD technique to have a DILD
You could combine WBTB and meditation techniques to achieve a WILD
A single technique can potentially lead to either type of lucid dream
Why the Distinction Matters
Here's a practical example that demonstrates why this difference is important:
You can use the MILD technique to induce a DILD state. This makes perfect sense because:
MILD is the method (technique) you're using
DILD is the outcome (state) you achieve
If both were techniques, this would be like saying "I used method A to achieve method B" - which doesn't make logical sense.
This understanding helps you:
Choose appropriate techniques for your preferred type of lucid dream
Better track and categorize your experiences
Set more realistic practice goals
Communicate clearly with other practitioners
Common Sources of Confusion
Several factors contribute to misunderstandings:
1. Similar acronyms (WILD/DILD/MILD)
2. All terms were created by Stephen LaBerge
3. The terminology is often used imprecisely in online discussions
Tips for Keeping It Clear
Remember these distinctions:
"Initiated" = Type of lucid dream (WILD/DILD)
"Induction of" = Technique (MILD)
Types describe the state in which a lucid dream starts.
Techniques are the methods you use to get there
Practical Applications
Understanding both types and techniques allows you:
1. Plan your practice more effectively
2. Choose techniques that match your goals
3. Adapt your approach based on results
4. Progress more systematically
FAQ
Which type of lucid dream should beginners aim for?
DILDs are generally easier for beginners, as they don't require maintaining consciousness during sleep onset.
Can one technique lead to both types of lucid dreams?
Yes, though some techniques are better suited for specific types. MILD typically leads to DILDs, while meditation-based techniques often target WILDs.
Do I need to master both types?
No, many experienced lucid dreamers prefer one type over the other. Focus on what works best for you.
Why did LaBerge use such similar acronyms?
While the similar naming convention is tidy, it has unfortunately led to some confusion in the community. Focus on understanding the underlying concepts rather than the acronyms.
This isn't semantics, it's important...
Success in lucid dreaming comes from understanding both the types of experiences possible (WILD and DILD) and the techniques used to achieve them (like MILD).
Remember: types describe how you enter lucidity, while techniques are the tools you use to get there.
By keeping this distinction clear, you'll be better equipped to:
Choose appropriate techniques
Understand your experiences
Progress in your practice
Achieve your lucid dreaming goals
Not look silly when discussing lucid dreaming