How nightmares can actually lower your anxiety

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published 10 July 2015

Sometimes our terrible dreams seem all too real, but as it turns out, that may actually be a good thing. Though scientists aren't completely sure why we have nightmares — or even why we dream at all — research shows that the things we find most worrisome during our waking hours will often haunt us while we sleep. And while waking up panting and covered in sweat is fairly miserable, bad dreams might actually be improving your ability to deal with those real-life terrors, by turning your fears into memories.

The newest video from New York Magazine's "Science of Us" explains:

So maybe next time you have a bad dream, thank your subconscious self for helping a sister out.