Losing a loved one is a painful experience that we all go through at some point in our lives. However, the loss of a particular loved one can have a profound impact on us, often more than we realize.
Have you ever dreamt about someone who is no longer alive? Perhaps you haven’t given much thought to the significance of their appearance in your dreams. But the truth is, many people share the practice of remembering departed loved ones in their dreams.
Dreams are a window into our subconscious, and dreaming about a dead person can hold a deeper meaning. Can it be possible that dead people communicate with us through our dreams?
According to Patrick McNamara, a neuroscientist and associate professor of neurology and psychiatry at Boston University School, these dreams are known as visitation dreams. In these dreams, the deceased appear to us as if they are alive, suggesting a form of communication from the other side.
McNamara, who often shares his insights on dreams under the name Dream Catcher on Psychology Today, believes that visitation dreams play a significant role in the healing process after the loss of a loved one. McNamara himself had a dream where he communicated with his dead parents, which only strengthened his belief in the power of these dreams.
Research studies have been conducted to understand the phenomenon of visitation dreams. One study, published in the American Journal of Hospice and Palliative Care, concluded that these dreams occur frequently and can hold great meaning, aiding in the healing process.
The dreams often revolve around themes such as reliving past memories, seeing the deceased free of illness, witnessing the deceased in the afterlife appearing healthy and at peace, and even receiving messages from the departed.
Another study conducted by Canadian researchers focused on middle-aged individuals who had recently experienced a significant loss. The findings revealed that a majority of participants who dreamt about their departed loved ones felt a stronger connection and faith in an afterlife.
Psychologist Jennifer E. Shorter from the Institute of Transpersonal Psychology in California has also explored the connection between our waking lives and dreams. Her research suggests that visitation dreams can occur shortly after a loss or even years later. She has identified four key features that distinguish visitation dreams: the deceased appearing as they did in real life but healthier or younger, the deceased expressing their current state, a telepathic connection, and a peaceful and harmonious dream environment.
Dreams can hold deep meaning, and visitation dreams can be a powerful way for us to connect with our departed loved ones. It is an experience that varies for each person and can bring solace during the grieving process.
Have you ever dreamt of a deceased loved one? We invite you to share your experiences in the comments section below. And if you believe that dreams can hold meaning, please share this article on Facebook.
