Sometimes dreams are often bizarre, leaving us to wonder what on earth could they possibly mean. While some dreams seem to make no sense at all, it’s very important to pay attention to the symbols in the dreams. Symbols are often a key part of dreams, with each one carrying its own specific meaning. Here are some common dream symbols and what they might mean.
1. Water
One of the most common dream symbols is water.
Water typically symbolizes emotions, so the meaning behind it will depend on how the water is being used or portrayed in the dream.
For example, calm water might represent serenity and peace, while choppy water might represent anxiety or emotional turmoil.
Swimming in water, which is common in dreams, is often symbolic of cleansing or purification. It may represent the dreamer’s desire to wash away their sins or cleanse themselves of negativity.
Alternatively, swimming in deep water may symbolize the dreamer’s feelings of being overwhelmed or submerged in their emotions.
Similarly, the color of the water can also provide additional meaning. Clear blue water might symbolize clarity or understanding, while muddy water might symbolize confusion or feelings of being overwhelmed.
2. Fire
Another common dream symbol is fire. Fire typically symbolizes passion, rage, or intensity.
The meaning will again depend on how the fire is being used in the dream; for example, a raging bonfire might symbolize uncontrolled anger, while a warm fireplace might represent comfort or security.
As with water, the color of fire can also provide additional meaning. Yellow flames might represent happiness or optimism, while red flames might represent danger or betrayal.
3. Animals
Animals also frequently appear in dreams, and they can symbolize a wide range of things.
For example, a cuddly kitten might represent innocence or vulnerability, while a menacing alligator might symbolize danger or aggression.
Again, the specific meaning will depend on the context of the dream and the animal itself.
If you are being attacked by an animal, it could mean something different when you are being attacked by a bird as opposed to a bear!
4. Birds
Yes, birds are animals, but they are also their own unique brand of special. And they are another common dream symbol.
Birds can represent a wide range of things depending on the type of bird. For example, doves often symbolize peace or love, while ravens might symbolize death or ill-omen.
Often, birds are symbolic of freedom and independence.
They can also represent messages from the spiritual realm or guidance from a higher power.
Different bird species can symbolize different things, for example:
- Hawks represent strength and power
- Ravens represent change and transformation
- Swallows represent new beginnings
- Blackbirds can symbolize aggression and territorial behavior
5. Flowers
Flowers are often associated with beauty, but they can also symbolize a wide range of other things depending on the type of flower.
For example, roses often symbolize love or appreciation, while their thorns might symbolize danger or betrayal.
Lilies often symbolize innocence and purity.
Flower symbols can be very personal. We tend to associate different flowers with different emotions.
For instance, if red roses remind you of your affection from your mom, then that would be the symbol behind dreaming of red roses.
6. Trees
Like flowers, trees can symbolize a wide range of things depending on the type of tree.
For example, evergreen trees often symbolize strength or resilience, while leafless trees might symbolize sadness or grief.
Again, if a tree has a certain meaning to you, then that’s it’s symbol. For instance, if your favorite relaxing getaway is surrounded by trees, then they would like symbolize peace and relaxation.
7. The Sun
The sun is often seen as a symbol of life, growth, and prosperity. However, it can also symbolize other things depending on the context of the dream. For example, a blinding sun might represent overwhelming challenges or obstacles, while a setting sun might represent the end of something.
8. The Moon
The moon is often seen as a symbol of mystery, femininity, or intuition. However, it can also take on negative connotations, such as insanity or madness.
Take into account how you view the moon (folklore included) when deciding what it symbolizes to you.
9. Stars
Stars are often seen as symbols of hope, guidance, or inspiration. However, they can also symbolize other things depending on the context of the dream.
For example, a star falling from the sky might represent a major life change or setback.
10. Clouds
Clouds are often seen as symbols of hope, guidance, or inspiration.
They can also mask things you want to see, indicating a sense of the unknown or not knowing what to do next.
11. Work
It’s very common to dream about the place where you work. Because work is such a big part of most people’s lives, a lot of dreaming situations tend to take place there. But dreaming about work itself often symbolizes something in your life.
For example, if you dream about being late for work, it might represent your fear of failure or not living up to expectations.
On the other hand, if you dream about acing a big project at work, it might represent your confidence and self-assurance in your abilities.
12. School
Like work, school is another common dream setting because it’s such a big part of most people’s lives. Even schools from your past can appear in your dream.
Schools often symbolize growth and overcoming obstacles. We all had struggles in school we had to overcome whether in relationships or academically.
For example, if you dream about being back in school and taking a test that you haven’t prepared for, it might represent your anxiety or insecurity about an upcoming situation in your life.
Alternatively, if you dream about getting an A on a test, it might symbolize your confidence or pride in your abilities to overcome something and find success.
13. Home
Home is often seen as a symbol of safety, comfort, and security. It’s a place where we can relax and be ourselves.
However, home can also symbolize other things depending on the context of the dream. For example, if your home is in disarray, it might represent feelings of chaos or uncertainty in your life.
On the other hand, if your home is bright and welcoming, it might represent a stable and positive time in your life.
Your childhood home might also appear in your dreams. This could symbolize feelings of nostalgia or longing for a simpler time.
Dream Symbols Are Personal To You
There are endless possibilities when it comes to dream symbolism. These are just a few examples of some common symbols and what they might mean.
Write down these common dream symbols and decide what they mean to you. Write down the first word that comes to mind – happiness, loneliness, freedom, etc.
When interpreting your dreams, consider not only the symbols present but also their colors, placement, and overall context within the dream itself. With a little bit of digging, you might be surprised at what your dreams are really trying to tell you!
