The idea that we can control our dreams through a technique called 'lucid dreaming' is usually the stuff of sci-fi films. (1), the sleeper knows they are dreaming and can control what happens - even deciding to have breathtaking experiences like flying. Now, thought-provoking research has received broad-based support from some highly respected scientists, who think it may not be as far-fetched (2). Lucid dreaming isn't just about mind-blowing experiences. (3). These skills vary from playing the piano to public speaking. It's been shown that people who dream about practicing things, like playing the piano, cooking or (4), do them better in 'real life' the next day. Well-known athletes also use lucid dreaming to help them deliver record-breaking performances. You don't need to be highly trained to have lucid dreams, but half-hearted efforts won't work, so try the following steps regularly: 1. Do difficult tasks during the day, such as studying a foreign language, solving complex mathematical problems, or (5), all of which make lucid dreaming more likely. 2. Decide what you want to dream about before you sleep. 3. As soon as you wake up and are still bleary-eyed, make notes about dreams while they are fresh in (6).