EMDR While Sleeping?

[Blues in NYC]

So I'm approaching a couple months into my therapy and intensive EMDR work. I've noticed the past few nights that my nightmares have become what can best be described as "half nightmares." And when I wake up, I sometimes feel that tactile figure-8 inside or under my scalp which I have come to associate with some of the EMDR movements.

Does anyone here have longer term experience with EMDR therapy? Has this happened to you, finding that your mind/body instinctively start doing the EMDR memory repositioning stuff in your sleep? This is pretty damned exciting if that is what is happening. My doc said that it's not uncommon to hit "domino" moments where trauma memories almost start undoing themselves...

 

[Deleted member 541]

I have never done EMDR, but if it's working while you are sleeping/waking, then I guess that's great for you.......Whatever works is my motto...As long as it's healthy!!!!

 

[Seeking_Nirvana]

When your mind is working while unconscious that is even better IMO. When unconscious there are not as many barriers (fears, phobias, etc) like when we are awake. We are inhibited while awake so we don't always give it our all. Our mind can work out problems while asleep.

I'm not familiar with EMDR but I've studied sleep and dreams and I know that when I'm sleeping, then wake up dialoging with myself about getting well, that can only be a good thing.

I wish you luck in getting well
Tammy