A dream is a wish your heart makes… or is it?
A dream is a wish your heart makes… or is it?
Have you ever jolted upright in bed from a terrifying nightmare?
It’s funny how sometimes the scariest scenarios are the ones you’ve actually created yourself.
While it’s difficult to find concrete evidence, it’s widely believed that dreams can help us understand and process thoughts and situations we have difficulty dealing with when we’re awake. Dreams are largely metaphorical, so don’t panic if you dream of dying, as your subconscious isn’t necessarily exposing a hidden death wish.
While every person is different, patterns have emerged that provide a gateway into our psyche, revealing our minds’ subconscious thoughts. So what do our dreams really mean?
Scenario 1: Dying
If you’ve ever seen your death play out like a dramatic movie scene, you’re not alone. The dreams (or nightmares), manifest in two different ways: either you see yourself dying from a third-person perspective, or you die... and wake up in cold sweat. Both tend to result in feelings of uncertainty or panic.
The breakdown These types of dreams typically occur during periods of change or transition. If you’re going through a particularly rough period, it can mean you’re trying to escape something. But not always. Death can also mean metamorphosis; a symbolic leaving of your old self behind.
Scenario 2: Being chased
It’s late at night, you’re in an abandoned warehouse, and a dark figure is fast approaching you from behind while you desperately try to outrun it. Just as the mysterious figure closes in, you wake up, ridden with anxiety. Sound familiar?
The breakdown This dream stems from instinctual habits, and the physiological fight-or-flight response. Rather than face an issue, we sometimes choose to run away from it, with the hopes of breaking free. Something to take note of is the distance between you and the pursuer – the nearer the both of you are, the closer the issue is to you. Running away from something can also point to work-related issues, such as a looming deadline you’re trying to escape, or a confrontation with a colleague (or friend) you’ve been trying to avoid. Consider the dream as a cue to confront your issue in real life.
Scenario 3: Wish fulfillment fantasies
Perhaps you’ve dreamed of winning the lottery or jetting off on a glamorous vacation, both highly desirable, but highly unrealistic. These dreams are simultaneously satisfying and disappointing – no one wants to wake up when their lives are finally going as planned.
The breakdown While asleep, the rational half of your brain shuts down and gives way to the subconscious, allowing your mind to indulge your desires. This provides an escape from reality, which implies there’s something in your life you’re trying to evade, such as paying the bills, or spending yet another long week at work. On the plus side, these types of dreams can feel pretty satisfying!
Scenario 4: Silent screaming
If you’ve experienced this nightmare before, we truly do sympathise, because this dream sends our anxiety through the roof. Usually, this dream is set in a scary situation, causing you to be paralysed with fear. But when you try to scream for help, nothing comes out.
The breakdown On a conscious level, screaming stems from feelings of fear or anger and allows us emotional release. On a subconscious level, screaming with no sound is extremely frustrating and reflects feelings of powerlessness. The dream represents futile attempts to gain attention in real life. If you’re experiencing communication problems with your S.O. or boss, this could be the source. Be sure to communicate your point loud and clear when you’re awake in order to rid yourself of this dream.
Scenario 5: Having superpowers
Whether you dream of being able to fly, have super speed, or wield a large hammer, dreams that grant superpowers are always entertaining. And although you’re not likely to be recruited for The Avengers anytime soon, one can dream!
The breakdown These dreams typically occur when you feel confident and empowered, reflecting how you feel when you’re awake. The specific type of superpower featured in the dream holds additional meaning. For example, having super strength can represent great perseverance during a difficult situation.
Scared to fall asleep now? Don’t be
Dreams stem from thoughts and intentions that we consciously push aside. Although they usually hold a deeper meaning, don’t take the breakdowns too literally and start panicking. Whether you’re awake or sleeping, it’s no secret that restraining emotions isn’t healthy; confronting real-world issues will result in a better night’s sleep and less stress when you’re awake.
Images 123RF Text Claire Soong Sources psychologytoday.com, dreambible.com, dreamstop.com.
