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Sleeping, Dreaming and Dying - Part 1 - Cris Rieder
Sleeping, Dreaming and Dying - Part 1 - Cris Rieder
Sleeping, Dreaming and Dying - Part 1 - Cris Rieder
We know instinctively and for sure, that we will wake up tomorrow after a good
night's sleep, refreshed for another day of living.
And I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I will 'wake up' to another incarnation
after death, to another life.
It is interesting to note, that 'la petite mort' in modern language has often been
used to describe the post-orgasmic state of quasi-unconsciousness that certain
people experience after having an intense sexual experience.
It can refer to the spiritual release that comes with orgasm, a short period of
melancholy or transcendence as a result of the expenditure of the 'life force'.
~~~
'Each day is a little life: every waking and rising a little birth, every fresh
morning a little youth, every going to rest and sleep a little death.'
― Arthur Schopenhauer, Counsels and Maxims.
Sleep is a little death, dreams the whisperings of The Other who would invite us
all into the eternal light.
― George R.R. Martin in 'A Song of Ice and Fire'.
It is He who takes your souls by night when you are asleep, and has knowledge of
all that you have done by day.
Then He wakes you up again so that your life period be fulfilled.
Then in the end to Him will be your return.
Then He will inform you of that which you used to do.
-----------------
In this article I wish to approach each of those three in-between states from the
perspective of my own experience, thru art and poetry, through the insights of
modern neuroscience as well as Freud/Jung dream-psychoanalysis as far as I am
knowledgeable about those fields.
~~~
Sleep
Most every night when I finally switch off the light to go to sleep, there is a
certain 'aaaaaaahhh!' Feeling that I feel all over my body.
Not that I am so very tired that I feel I need to rest, it's just a kind of joy
about diving in, going under, releasing the day.
A clear midnight.
'This is thy hour O Soul, thy free flight into the wordless,
Away from books, away from art, the day erased, the lesson done,
Thee fully forth emerging, silent, gazing, pondering the themes thou
lovest best.
Night, sleep, death and the stars.'
Walt Whitman
----------------------------
But why?
What for?
Well, intuitively I would say that it's because it's dark for quite some time
around here on Earth. At least in those days and nights when we started to walk
upright.
Earth rotating around the sun, like everything rotating has a rhythm.
Day-and-night-rhythm, which calibrates our internal clock.
The body's internal clock, called the Circadian Rhythm, is a 24-hour cycle that
regulates sleepiness and alertness in response to light changes in the environment.
This rhythm affects nearly every tissue and organ in the body, influencing
important functions such as sleep patterns, hormone release, appetite, digestion,
and body temperature.
Most of us humans typically sleep lying down. Cats sleep curled up. Most dogs sleep
sprawled out. The tiger likes to put himself on a tree. The elephant sleeps
standing up, the hippopotamus under water. Cows can sleep with their eyes open.
Dolphins continue to swim, as only half of their brain sleeps and some birds sleep
while in flight!
So, I conclusion we can say that a lot of our lifetime is spent sleeping, 'dead to
the world'!
Why?
I think in the past the common view was, that sleep is just a passive state
necessary for rest and recovery. This changed significantly with the findings of
neuroscience, which demonstrated that sleep is an active phenomenon involving
complex brain activities.
Early researchers like Sigmund Freud recognized the active nature of sleep, which
he initially explored through a neurological lens before moving towards
psychoanalysis.
Neuroscience studies what's going on in our brain, simply speaking.
These patterns shift dramatically as a person moves from wakefulness into various
stages of sleep.
Sleep Patterns:
Those EEG brainwave patterns clearly show, that sleep is not a uniform state but
comprises several stages, each with unique characteristics:
1. Non-REM Sleep:
Divided into four stages, non-REM sleep involves progressively deeper sleep.
The EEG patterns show a transition from mixed frequency waves to high-amplitude,
low-frequency Delta waves typical of deep sleep.
2. REM Sleep:
Characterized by rapid eye movements, aka REM, and brain activity similar to
wakefulness,
REM sleep is associated with vivid dreaming. During this stage, the body
experiences temporary muscle paralysis to prevent acting out dreams.
- Dreaming:
Most vivid dreams occur during REM sleep. This stage is associated with intense
brain activity, including memory consolidation and emotional processing.
- Physiological Characteristics:
REM sleep is marked by increased heart rate, breathing rate, and irregularity in
brain waves similar to those observed during wakefulness.
Health Implications:
Adequate REM sleep is crucial for cognitive function, emotional regulation, and
overall well-being. Disruptions in REM sleep can affect memory, mood, and may
contribute to disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea.
What are the Sleep Cycles we go thru when we go to sleep?
'Sleep cycle' refers to the pattern of stages the brain and body go through several
times while we sleep.
Each stage plays a role in different aspects of your sleep quality and overall
health.
Stage 1:
Light sleep, where we drift in and out of being awake. This stage can be easily
disrupted.
Stage 2:
Slightly deeper sleep, where o\ur heart rate slows and body temperature drops.
Stages 3 and 4:
Deep sleep stages, also known as slow-wave sleep, where our body repairs tissues,
stimulates growth, boosts immune function, and builds energy for the next day.
REM Sleep:
Occurs about 90 minutes after falling asleep and can last up to an hour. It's when
most dreaming occurs, and our brain is active and engaged, while your muscles are
'paralyzed' to prevent us from acting out our dreams.
The sleep cycle consists of those 5 stages that the brain cycles through multiple
times during a typical night. These stages are characterized by distinct brainwave
patterns, which can be measured using electroencephalography, EEG.
Diagram of the sleep cycles and the respective EEG brainwave patterns.
In this diagram the hours of sleep are shown, with sample recordings of the EEG as
it changes during various stages and the cycle repeats several times during the
night. The black bar on top si when REM sleep appears.
To sum up and answer the question 'Why do we sleep' from the perspective of
Neuroscience and physiology, I see two kinds of scientific insights:
-----------
Rudolf Steiner’s clairvoyant view gives quite a specific and detailed picture of
the various stages of our consciousness as it moves continually through the daily
cycle of sleeping and waking.
When awake, the ego and astral body are united with the etheric and physical
bodies, and when asleep, the ego and astral leave the etheric and physical. During
the night, the ego and astral bodies return to the etheric and physical without
joining them, but they are united enough that the ego experiences some of the
activity occurring in the etheric body. This is when we remember some of the
pictures and stories we call dreams.
Hey, hey!
Hold on!
This is not simple, right?
What's all those bodies got to do with sleeping and dreaming???
Anthroposophy is a very wide horizon, very deep waters and it will take a while to
explain sleeping an dreaming in clairvoyant terms.
I have been studying this kind of stuff long time ago when I was working in Waldorf
Kindergarden. It's quite a task to bring it all into a few paragraphs that make
easy sense but I'll try.
The following descriptions are loosely based on two talks given by Rudolf
Steiner, ca. 1923.
On the Life of the Soul: The Human Soul in the Twilight of Dreams.
The Bridge Between Universal Spirituality and the Physical Constitution of Man:
Soul-and-Spirit in Man's Physical Constitution.
I will also take the freedom and add my own grain of salt to it, I hope it gives a
bit of 21st Century flair to it all.
I think it may be useful to once again include a little bit about the sleep cycles
and brainwave states we experience when going to bed.
If we examine an EEG of an awake person who falls asleep, we see that he/she moves
through periods of dreaming, and then awakens, we can see how the frequency and
type of electrical activity in the brain varies according to a particular brainwave
pattern.
This diagram represents an average night of sleep, where we move from waking into
stages 1, 2, 3 and 4, then back up into a REM, the rapid eye movement period where
dreaming occurs.
This activity cycles about five times, with each REM period getting longer as the
night progresses.
This illustration shows what type of brainwave activity occurs in the various
stages of sleep.
It is, in a way, a mixture of the state of wakefulness with that of proper sleep.
In the dream state, we are not awake in the sense of having the capacities normally
attributed to our normal daytime, awake consciousness, such as the ability to think
through a single logical, complex line of thought.
~~~
Anthroposophy offers insight into the nature of dreaming and sleeping but it
requires a wider conception of the human being.
Rather than consisting solely of a physical body, Anthroposophy, like many other
spiritual traditions the world over, recognizes other parts or members of the human
being which exist at various non-physical levels.
The physical body can be considered to be the “lowest” or most dense aspect of the
human being, which we share with the mineral world.
“Above” the etheric body, Anthroposophy identifies the part of the human being that
is shared with the animal kingdom, the Astral Body, through which we experience
desire, passion, antipathy, pain, pleasure and all other feelings.
The astral body, which can be called the soul or at least an aspect of The Soul. It
is responsible for connecting human experience to the worlds that surround us
through our senses.
The human being has an additional member, which can be called the 'Ego', or 'I -
being', which sets us apart from the animal kingdom.
It is the part of us that can say “I” to itself, can self-reflect and grow
spiritually.
So, simply put, the human being is comprised of body (physical and etheric), soul
(astral), and spirit (I-being), working as a united, interweaving whole.
In the Anthroposophic perspective that goes much further beyond the human horizon,
the I-being is the lowest member of the human’s spiritual nature.
—-
So, what actually happens when we dream.
How do those funny pictures and stories come about?
From the perspective of Anthroposophy, when a person goes to sleep, the physical
and etheric bodies lie together on the bed, while the astral body and ego separate
and leave the two lower members.
The physical body is kept from the process of dissolution in sleep because the
etheric body remains, engendering all the necessary functions to sustain life.
But not consciousness. Consciousness is a function of the ego, and the nature of
the experiences available to it depend upon its level of development.
Because of the present configuration of the ego and its relation to the lower
members, the ego cannot generally remain awake without contact with the etheric and
physical bodies.
In dreamless sleep, because the astral and ego are separated from the lower bodies,
the consciousness of the ego becomes dim to the point of complete unconsciousness.
It should not be imagined that the astral and ego separate completely from the
lower bodies, but that still a slight connection remains between them.
If the ego and astral separated completely, the etheric body would soon lose its
ability to maintain the physical form, and death would result.
In terms of dreaming sleep, the ego and astral body turn back towards the physical
and etheric bodies, but not to the point of fully uniting with them. Rather it is
as if they hover nearby, between the physical world and the world that could be
called the Astral World, in which the ego and astral body move when in dreamless
sleep.
In the awake state at A, the ego, astral, etheric, and physical bodies are united,
and we experience the normal daytime consciousness, the awake consciousness.
Then, as relaxation towards sleep occurs, the ego and astral body begin to loosen
slightly from the etheric and physical bodies, corresponding with the shift to
alpha waves.
At C, the ego and astral bodies are in further separation, until at D they are
almost completely separated.
Then, over the course of the night, the ego and astral bodies will begin to turn
back towards the physical and etheric bodies lying on the bed. E.
At F, the astral and ego are close enough to the etheric and physical bodies that
enough support exists for the ego to have the experience of dreaming, but not
enough that full, day-awake consciousness is possible.
Where do the sometimes phantasmic and sometime frightening pictures and movies come
from that we call Dreams.
The astral body or Soul, which is distinct from the Spirit, is the part of the
human organism that is capable of forming symbols. One of its functions is to take
in the world through sensorial perception, which it reflects towards the ego, our
sense of 'I' or 'Self'.
Our ego feels itself to be awake when it is in contact with the physical world
through the senses. The thoughts of our daytime awake consciousness are tied
closely to the physical world because of our perceptions thru the senses.
But in dreamless sleep, it is precisely our physical senses that become dim for us,
to the point of complete non-existence.
Our astral body and ego recede from the physical and etheric bodies, and without
training, the ego cannot remain awake to the pictures that then flow from the
astral realm into our astral body.
Those pictures do not come from the physical world which it has just turned away
from, but from the wider astral and spiritual worlds in which it is now embedded.
We experience a loss of not just the capacity for rational thought, but also of the
ego’s own ability to perceive itself.
In between the astral and physical bodies lies the etheric body, working to
metabolize, repair, and regulate all the activity of the life organs. The etheric
body can be thought of as a tapestry of weaving forces that connect strongly to the
physical body, penetrating it through and through with activity and energy.
In order to understand dreaming, it is towards the etheric body that we must look.
Becoming aware of passing through the etheric body gives the ego the experience of
the dream, and this experience comes through and is mediated by the symbol-forming
capacity of the astral body.
The dream content itself has its source in the etheric body, but the astral body
transforms that primal content into symbols that are presented to the ego.
It is as if the weaving etheric forces have to become clothed in the symbols formed
by the astral body before the ego can awaken to them.
It is just this process that gives the dream its dreamlike quality. We have the
sense when awake that there is more to our dream than the manifest form in which it
is presented to us. But that somehow beneath this exterior a deeper reality lies in
waiting.
-------
There is a lot of literature available about Freud and Jung and their
psychoanalytic approach to decode dreams and work with them in therapy.
It's not exactly my cup of tea, so I rather leave it up to you to do some research
in this direction if you are interested.
I have always been more inspired to approach the sleep states and dream-time
realities like an explorer, an adventurer going into unknown lands.
And Rudolf Steiner was exactly such a guy, just with a much much more advanced
skillset and refined consciousness than myself.
This might be the reason I share his views here in such a length.
1. - In the lightest stage, we experience dreams that can be recalled upon waking.
Steiner connects this stage to Imagination.
This state allows for some continuity of consciousness, as the dream experiences
can be brought back into our waking life. However, these dream images are often
varied and diffused.
2. - The second stage is deeper, where the human soul encounters the activities of
spiritual beings. This stage, which Steiner associates with Inspiration, involves
witnessing the deeds of angelic beings and other spiritual entities within the
cosmos.
In this state, the soul is more detached from the physical processes of the body
and engages in a more profound spiritual experience, often imperceptible to
ordinary consciousness.
3. - The third stage is the deepest form of sleep, which Steiner connects to
Intuition. Here, the soul undergoes experiences that are typically beyond conscious
recall upon awakening.
This stage involves confronting spiritual challenges and absorbing deep wisdom,
which might manifest as feelings of unease or challenge upon waking, suggesting an
engagement with profound spiritual tasks during sleep.
Unlike the waking state, which is bound by the laws of physical nature, dreams
transcend these limitations, providing access to a different realm where spiritual
laws prevail. Dreams signify the potential for awareness within the otherwise
unconscious domain of sleep. They are seen as a bridge to the Spirit, indicating
that our consciousness extends beyond the physical and engages with spiritual
dimensions during sleep.
Steiner suggests that sleep, dreams, and even death are opportunities for the soul
to immerse itself more deeply in the divine flow of existence.
Through dreams, the soul connects with spiritual forces and beings, facilitating
spiritual growth and understanding. By maintaining a degree of self-awareness
during sleep, individuals can cultivate a richer spiritual life and gain insights
that inform their waking consciousness.
What are those abilities of Imagination, Inspiration and Intuition and how can an
adventurous inner cosmonaut use them to discover the vast realms of sleep and dream
and the higher worlds?
1. Imagination:
- Imagination is the ability to form mental images and representations that are not
present to the senses. For Steiner, this is not merely a creative or fanciful
activity but a disciplined skill and ability that allows the spiritual researcher
to visualize and explore the subtle dimensions of sleep and dreams.
2. Inspiration:
- Inspiration, in Steiner's framework, is a higher level of cognition than
imagination. It involves receiving insights and guidance from the Spiritual World.
This faculty allows the individual to hear the inner spiritual voice and understand
the deeper meanings behind dream symbols and experiences.
3. Intuition
- Intuition is the highest of these faculties, providing direct knowledge and
understanding without the intermediary of sensory experience or imaginative
imagery. It is an immediate apprehension of spiritual truths.
Intuition allows the spiritual researcher to grasp the essence of spiritual
experiences encountered during sleep and dreams. It enables a direct connection
with the spiritual world and a deep understanding of the individual's spiritual
path and development.
Regular practice of meditation and mindfulness can help develop these faculties,
enabling a more profound connection with the spiritual dimensions of sleep.
The enhanced understanding gained through these faculties leads to greater, more
holistic self-awareness and spiritual development, transforming sleep from a
passive state into an active field of spiritual exploration.
--------------
At the beginning of the article I mentioned the expression 'la petite mort'.
Death as a Transition.
In Steiner's view, death is a natural and essential part of the human journey. He
described death as a transition from the physical world to the spiritual world,
where the soul continues its evolution.
According to Steiner, life and death are part of a continuous cycle, with each
death and subsequent rebirth contributing to the growth and development of the
individual's soul.
Death, therefore, is not an end but a passage to another state of being, where the
soul can reflect on its past life and prepare for future incarnations.
Steiner describes the initial stage of dying as the separation of the physical body
from the etheric body, which he also calls the life body.
The etheric body is responsible for maintaining life processes and vitality. Upon
death, this body detaches from the physical shell, and the individual experiences a
panoramic review of their life.
This life review is vivid and detailed, allowing the person to relive their entire
life in a brief span, seeing it from a comprehensive perspective that includes the
consequences of their actions and the emotional impacts on others.
After the life review, the etheric body begins to dissolve, typically over a period
of a few days.
During this time, the individual remains connected to their earthly experiences but
gradually moves towards the spiritual realm. The dissolution of the etheric body
signifies the end of the immediate connection to the physical world, and the soul
starts to ascend towards higher planes of existence.
In some spiritual traditions the separation of the etheric body from the physical
body is expressed as the 'Breaking of the Silver Cord'
Next, the individual enters the astral world, which Steiner describes as the realm
of desires, emotions, and instincts.
This stage involves the separation of the astral body, or soul body, from the
etheric remnants. In the astral world, the individual confronts and processes their
earthly desires and attachments.
This phase is often challenging, as it involves purifying the soul from lower
instincts and emotions that were part of the physical existence.
In the astral realm, the soul undergoes a period of purification. This process,
sometimes referred to as "karmic cleansing," entails a deep reflection on one's
actions, thoughts, and feelings during their lifetime.
The soul experiences the impact of its deeds from the perspective of those
affected, fostering a deeper understanding of moral and ethical implications. This
purification helps the soul release attachments and prepare for its further journey
into the spiritual world.
After the astral purification, the soul ascends to the devachanic plane, also known
as the mental or heavenly world. Here, the soul engages in a higher level of
existence characterized by spiritual reflection and learning.
In the devachanic plane, the individual reviews their life’s experiences in the
context of their soul's development and spiritual growth. This stage is marked by a
profound understanding of one’s life purpose and the lessons learned through
various incarnations.
Steiner's teachings emphasize the cyclical nature of life and death, with the soul
eventually preparing for reincarnation. In the higher spiritual realms, the soul,
guided by spiritual beings, plans its next earthly life.
The preparation phase ensures that each reincarnation is a step forward in the
soul's journey towards higher consciousness and spiritual maturity.
Central to Steiner’s view of dying and reincarnation is the concept of karma. Karma
is the spiritual law of cause and effect, where every action, thought, and feeling
influences future experiences.
During the afterlife, the soul comprehends the karmic consequences of its past
actions and integrates this understanding into its preparation for future lives.
This karmic learning process is essential for the soul’s progression towards higher
states of being and eventual spiritual liberation.
Throughout the process of dying and the afterlife journey, Steiner asserts that
individuals are supported by spiritual beings and guides.
These entities assist in the transition, provide insights, and help the soul
navigate the spiritual realms.
Additionally, the living can support the dead through thoughts, prayers, and
rituals, maintaining a connection that transcends physical death.
I intend to write about 'Lucid Dreaming', about the 'Tibetan Dream Yoga' and 'Yoga
Nidra' as well as Buddhas teachings about sleep and the dream state in the next
article.
I have already written at length about 'The Bardo of Dying' in a recent article,
contemplating it from different angles and pointing at practical approaches to that
destiny that nobody will escape ; )
I have already written at length about 'The Bardo of Dying' in a recent article,
contemplating it from different angles and pointed at practical approaches to that
destiny that nobody will escape ; )
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