Astral projection and dreaming

[koala]

I have noticed how I wake up from nightmarish or any kind of dreams. First eyes get opened and I become aware I am in my room. Last week I had dream. Its end freaked me out. There was darkness outside of place I was living in. Darkness wasn't inside, just outside. There was some cold in it. I was coming back to my place, there I noticed it. After sometime I freaked out, my eyes got opened all of sudden and then I realized I am back in my room.

Do you think I astrally projected?
Is it possible unconscious astral projection?
Is there any connection between astral projection and dreaming?

[CFTraveler]

You always project when you dream, and it's not uncommon to wake up from a dream to find yourself in a 'holding pattern' or other landscape.

[koala]

CFTraveler, I did feel that way. I hold the place's vibes for a while. Perfect word to describe that. Thank you! :-)