locochronos

Any time I become lucid, and realize I'm dreaming I wake up almost instantly. Are there ways to avoid the shocking myself awake with the realization that I know I am dreaming?

Is it helpful to meditate on recurring thoughts and themes (of recent dreams) prior to going to sleep?

Could you explain your comment "reconnect with lost relatives or friends" with more detail? Through meditation and dreams I have recurring memories of a passed grandmother.