DREAM DIARY
Some folks can go from awake to asleep in a blink but not me. It has always taken me awhile to get to sleep. I stay awake and think of this and that. Some people don't care to remember their dreams nor desire to have any (which of course, they do). It should come as no great shock that I've always been interested in my dreams.
It's important for you to consider your sleep pattern and your dreams if you're planning to control your dreams or travel. Are you awake and then instantly asleep on the pillow? Do you remember your dreams or want to? Are you like me? Are you somewhere in between? If you're any of these types (and we know you are), keep a dream diary.
Place a piece o' paper, a small flashlight (for late night entries) and a pen next to your bed. Write the date on your paper, go to sleep and dream. When you awaken (whether it's the middle of the night or morning for heavy sleepers), and before you do something else that requires your brain (which is everything), write down the time and anything at all you recall from your dreams. The information may seem insignificant or hazy, but write it down.
It will become easier to recall your dreams as you continue keeping the diary. The writing may eventually take more than a page a night, and your hand may cramp up. You'll probably need to refill your pen and recharge the battery in your flashlight, but keep writing.
I won't be mentioning the dream diary again because I figure you're either gonna do it because of my sage advice, or you're not. But (I repeat because it works), a diary is the most effective tool for recalling and interpreting your dream and/or travel experiences.