Review: dreammachine

When you land on the tactile dreammachine website, you’re immediately hooked. For an immersive nut like me, this is my candy. I know I’m going before I’ve even scrolled to see the wizards behind the experience; Turner Prize, Grammy and Mercury winning designers, technologists, scientists, philosophers and then the word “magic” – you know this isn’t your usual oculus affair.

‘This lingering query persists: do we truly perceive the world as it exists?’

I’ve always maintained that the best thing in the world is to remain curious, and dreammachine’s statement ‘explore the extraordinary potential of your mind’ is enough of a trigger for me to complete the pre-assessment health questionnaire (you cannot attend if you’re sensitive to flashing light and loud sounds) and wait for my approval.

Then my life changed.

Let’s pause for a second on the word ‘machine.’ It’s apt here and very relevant, because the dreammachine is very much a transference experience. The dream element, though, is an entirely personal and fluid experience, when brought together creates a rather unusual immersion none two the same. When dreams (or visions) and transference combine, an out of body experience takes over, and something truly magical happens. Let me explain further.

Now, I won’t go into any detail about what happens inside the dreammachine but I will say that everyone has a completely unique experience. Mine was profound, emotionally and physically. My feelings ran the full gamut, from reacting with tears streaming down my face;  to unexpected arousal (rather embarrassing!); to considering what happens to our mortal souls and our path when we die; to seeing past loved-one’s silhouettes and shadows all around me; to joy and intense laughter; to complete peace.

 This lingering query persists: do we truly perceive the world as it exists? It might appear so, as if the world, in all its vibrant hues, resonant melodies, and myriad forms, presents itself directly to our consciousness through the windows of our senses. Yet, delving into the realms of perception, into the intricate dance of how our minds interpret the influx of information, uncovers a narrative far more complex and intriguing. The dreammachine, perhaps, is a place for us all to reflect on this and start discovering the answers.

 I am purposely not given this extraordinary experience any stars as to not impact your personal experience.

For bookings and more information, please visit their website