I became disinterested with LDing throughout the summer since I didn't have one for a long time, and now I'm back into it but I can't seem to have them as frequently as I could. I know when I do have an LD, it's the most amazing thing in the world, but when you don't have one for a while you forget how amazing it just is and you lose motivation. I Had one about 2 months ago, that's about it. I've been writing in my dream journal, but my dream recall is pretty bad now. For all of you that actually achieve results, I'd love it if you could answer some questions.

1). What's some good affirmations to say out loud before going to bed?

2.) What should you think about as you're going to sleep? Visuals, Auditory, etc.

3.) How many reality checks are sufficient throughout the day?

4.) Self confidence, how big of a role does it play in having one?

5.) What's the best reality check? I do the digital watch one (Look at time twice) and counting your fingers with your hands out in front of you. Are there any better ones?

6) Concerning REM cycles, Say I go to bed at 10 pm, What times should I wake up at the end of my REM cycles to record in my DJ. I'm not quite sure concerning the graphs I looked at. Also, do I wake up DURING rem or right after?

7) Does listening to Ambient music help induce LDs? I can put on some Aphex Twin Selected Works II in the background at a low volume?

8 ) Do Those black night masks help?

9) Does physical exercise help in some way?

10.) My friend, who's been trying to have an LD for quite some time with no luck, needs a bit of advice on how to have one. The advice I gave him seems to not work, so shoot. He's remembering his dreams more clearly, interacting with them, but he just can't seem to get Lucid. What should he do?

Thx in advance. You don't have to answer all of them.