Dream Meanings of the 12 Most Common Symbols in Dreams

Dreams give us an opportunity to look into our subconscious mind and may allow for a deeper understanding of personal psychological transformation during waking life. Much of the scientific study about the interpretation of the messages that we are given in our dreams has been based on the work of Carl Jung, a well-respected psychologist and psychiatrist, who believed that dreams are filled with symbols that stem from the unconscious.

Interpreting your own dreams can give you an interesting glimpse into the totality of the psyche. If you’re ready for a peek, keep a journal next to your bed and write down what you remember about your dreams as soon as you wake up (because most often you will forget your dream within a few minutes of being awake). To improve your ability to remember your dream meanings, each night set an intention that you will remember your dreams. Also, it may help to stay free of drugs and alcohol and to limit what you eat 2 or 3 hours before your bedtime.

Below are twelve very common symbols found in dreams and a short description of what each one means. Dream meaning analysis can be an interesting and fun method of self-reflection and conscious personal development, but always remember that all dreams are very personal and esoteric in nature. Carl Jung states:

“It is plain foolishness to believe in ready-made systematic guides to dream interpretation. No dream symbol can be separated from the individual who dreams it, and there is no definite or straightforward interpretation of any dream.”

1. Being Chased – Something Needs Attention

We often remember dreams where we were being chased because it makes us anxious and fearful. The message in these types of dreams is usually about what you are running from. The mind is giving you a hint that something needs your attention, something that you are not addressing, but should.

2. People – Characteristics of the Self

Seeing people in a dream is a representation of the various aspects of the Self. This may give the dreamer ideas of which personal characteristics need attention. If you dream of specific people, this may indicate which interpersonal issues you need to work through, or if you’re detached from a specific aspect of yourself.

3. House – Dreamer’s Mind

There are several layers of consciousness that comprise the mind. Within a dream, a house is believed to be a representation of the dreamer’s mind, with its different floors and rooms relating to the various aspects of the psyche. For example, a basement can represent something that’s been neglected or is not being amply acknowledged by the dreamer in waking life; and bedrooms can represent intimate thoughts, feelings and memories. The activity in the house signifies how the dreamer utilizes the structure of the mind to acquire and interpret information.

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