For as long as humans have been sleeping, they have been dreaming. Some say it’s the brain processing our days and experiences. Some say it’s our brain setting goals, so dreaming about the future. And some say dreams have deep symbolism that is both highly individual and yet somehow universal. Decoding recurring dreams and patterns within them can have a profound impact on one’s life.
What Do Recurring Dreams Mean?
Difficult emotions and significant life events can cause recurring dreams. Unresolved issues, unmet needs, conflicts, and tensions that, whether we are aware of them or not, can also increase their likelihood. The recurrence of a dream one had long ago can indicate that something in your current life requires you to revisit an old problem and remind yourself of how you handled it and the outcome.
Common Types of Recurring Dreams and What They Symbolise
Being Chased
Perhaps the most common recurring dream is that of being chased. It typically signals anxiety, stress, or avoidance. The pursuer in the dream may represent a real-life challenge, a difficult emotion, or an unresolved conflict. The act of running away in the dream can symbolise a desire to escape from something in waking life, whether it’s a responsibility, a relationship, or an internal struggle.
Falling
Dreams of falling are almost as common as those of being chased. While terrifying in the moment, these dreams often reflect feelings of insecurity, a loss of control, or a fear of failure. They may occur during times of transition or uncertainty, such as starting a new job, moving to a new city, or facing a major life decision.
Being Back in School
Many adults report recurrent dreams of being back in school, often facing an important exam or realising they are unprepared. These dreams usually surface during periods of self-doubt or when people are grappling with performance anxiety. They may also reflect a lingering sense of not meeting expectations, either your own or those of others.
Losing Teeth
Dreams about losing teeth are surprisingly common and can be quite unsettling. Psychologists suggest these dreams may be linked to feelings of powerlessness, concerns about appearance, or
worries about communication. Some interpretations connect them to stress or even physical sensations, such as teeth grinding at night.
Water
Water in dreams often reflects emotions and the subconscious. Calm water can symbolise peace and clarity, while turbulent or murky water may indicate anxiety or confusion. How you interact with water, whether that is swimming, drowning, or drinking, can reveal your comfort with your feelings or a need for emotional renewal.
Being Naked in Public
Being naked in public is actually another common dream theme, too. This taps into deep-seated fears of exposure, vulnerability, or embarrassment. It often arises when people feel scrutinised or judged in their waking lives, or when they are navigating new social situations where they fear not fitting in.
Flying
While often exhilarating, flying dreams can have different meanings depending on the context. They may symbolise a desire for freedom, escape from problems, or a sense of achievement. Sometimes, they reflect a person’s aspiration to rise above challenges or gain a new perspective on life.
Symbolic and Introspective
From visiting a bakery with your in-laws to getting frazzled at the supermarket, recurring dreams, albeit strange, are a bridge between your conscious and unconscious mind. They invite you to explore your inner world, confront your fears, and embrace growth. By listening to these nightly narratives, you can unlock a deeper understanding of yourself and move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
