You can mentally prepare by not building it up with any fear the dreams may bring up; instead surround it and you with a ball of white light of protection. Say a prayer or meditation of thanksgiving that all are at peace, or at least yourself, and protected during this journey "back." It sometimes helps to write a letter to whomever or whatever you might be feeling: yourself in a past life, the souls of those who died there, your higher self, asking for protection, offering forgiveness, blessing all. Then burn the letter or tuck it away in a place yoou consider sacred.

I think the others are right. It is better you confront this, fully aware, without psyching yourself out too much. Is there a friend going whom you can confide in who could stay close by with you and offer support?

Try writing about the dream, first, verbalising all of the fears and memories you may think you have. All of these things will act as a release, so that you can let go of the fear, trauma, etc. It is part of your soul growth, at least from my experience.

Do please let us know how it goes and send me a PM if there is anything I can do to help. I've quite a bit of experience in helping with past lives.

kat