Could that bad dream be linked to your mental well-being? We explore the reality of those scary sleep intruders.
Picture this: you’re walking down a dark alley. You hear footsteps. You try to run, but your limbs feel heavy. Your heart’s racing, your blood’s pumping, you can hear yourself scream. And then... You open your eyes, safe in your bed. But it all felt so real.
Nightmares are typically associated with monsters-under-the-bed terror as kids, but being old enough to get served alcohol doesn’t necessarily mean you’re immune – especially when you’re female. “It’s a robust finding in sleep literature that women experience more nightmares than men; interestingly, the gender difference only begins to emerge at adolescence,” says Dr Bryony Sheaves, a research clinical psychologist who specialises in the relationship between sleep disturbance and psychotic experiences. “Initial findings suggest women may remember more of their dreams generally, so they are more likely to retain or recollect their nightmares. But women are also more prone to experience feelings of anxiety and worry – and worrying is one of the best predictors of regular nightmares.” This suggests that what plays out while you’re asleep is directly linked to things you’ve struggled to deal with during your waking hours.
This story is from the July 2019 edition of Women's Health South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the July 2019 edition of Women's Health South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Should We All Be More GenZ
Those born between 1997 and 2012 now make up more than a fifth of the workforce - and while they might have strong opinions on your jeans, it's not the only thing they care about. From healthy boundaries to prioritising mental wellbeing, WH makes the case for growing down...
OPTIMISE YOUR ENERGY
Experts say we're suffering from a \"fatigue epidemic\" - but that it's fixable. Deep-dive into the research behind this phenomenon and learn to service your source for the long haul.
The Real Art Of Getting Closure
The days of waiting for someone else to give you answers are officially over. Understanding isn't handed to you. It's work you - yes, you! - put in.
May I Recommend Being A Serial Dater And Not Having Sex?
If you like snacks or bad TV, you're already on your way.
Force Of Habit
From over-worrying to over-shopping, your impulses might hold you back more than you think. Cycle-breaking insights, ahead.
Unleash Your Inner Child
Sometimes, finding happiness in the present means healing the past. Experts share simple ways to show kindness to your former self.
Water Works
Proper hydration is the key to healthier, more manageable hair - and it doesn't entail a dramatic overhaul. It starts with a little knowledge and ends with a few moisturising micro-adjustments to your routine.
The Active Girl's Sun & Sweat Guide
Exercising outdoors requires a little extra effort when it comes to protection. But it's worth it. You can level up your SPF game and still enjoy open-air workouts.
Tatjana Schoenmaker
Trailblazer Tatjana Schoenmaker reflects on her remarkable career, what drives her and how she hopes to make the most of her future needs.
Charted Waters
Take a deep dive into the sport that'll shape, tone and help you find mindfulness. Your guide to swimming, right here.