Analyzing common dream world symbols
Dreams represent a fascinating alternate reality, and dream
analysis is a fascinating subject for professionals and lay
people alike. Many people feel that if they could just
understand and take control of their dreams, all their real
world problems would be solved.
While this position may be a bit of a stretch, it is true that
many issues in dreams have their roots in the waking world, and
when these daytime issues are solved, so to are the dreams they
sparked.
When studying the fascinating and sometimes confusing world of
dreams, it is a good idea to look at the symbols many other
people have found in common dream objects.
Accident A dream accident could represent fear of an actual
accident, or it could represent fear of some sort of mental or
physical breakdown.
Awakening Dreaming about waking up can symbolize a realization
of, or openness to, new ideas and new experiences.
Brother Dreaming about a brother has different meanings
depending on the relationship of the dreamer to his or her
actual brother. If there is a strained relationship, a dream
about a brother can represent an inner core of love and respect
for the sibling.
Climbing Dreams of climbing can be symbols for yearning or
reaching, or for the attaining of new mental, spiritual or
physical goals.
Desert Dreaming of a desert, or of being lost in a desert, can
represent loneliness and longing.
Door A door can be a symbol for the possibility of a better
opportunity. Being afraid to open a door in a dream can mean you
are afraid to try new things.
Eating Eating in a dream can represent nourishment, or the need
to be taken care of.
Falling Dreams of falling can represent a loss of control, or a
feeling of being unable to maintain your position in life.
Gate A gate in a dream is similar to a door, in that it
represents an opportunity for movement and growth. Going through
the gate can be a sign that you are ready to try new things.
Heart The heart is seen as a symbol of love. Most dreams which
include heart shapes center on love and romance.
Immobility Dreams of being paralyzed or immobilized can be
indications that the dreamer feels trapped. For instance, you
may feel trapped or smothered in a relationship, or you may feel
like you are unable to get ahead at your job.
Jumping Dreaming about jumping can symbolize that the dreamer is
open to achieving greater goals. Jumping is usually a positive
symbol, and it can mean that the dreamer faces a bright future.
Ladder A ladder can be a symbol for growth, or for spiritual
learning. A ladder can symbolize a desire to reach higher, or to
achieve greater happiness.
Military Dreams about military figures often symbolize a desire
for authority. Dreams about the military often represent a
craving for the bravery engendered by the armed forces.
Noose Dreaming about a noose can symbolize a guilt and a fear of
punishment. Seeing a noose in your dreams may mean you are
afraid of something in your waking life.
Pig The meaning of the pig symbol depends on your cultural frame
of reference. While to most westerners a pig symbolizes greed
and filth, to the Chinese a pig is a symbol of strength.
Rain Rain also has a number of meanings in the dream world. In
some scenarios, rain can symbolize depression, while at other
times it can represent a cleansing and a renewal. The meaning
will depend on the context of rain within the dream.