What Your Most Common Dreams Really Mean

Although Disney taught us “a dream is a wish your heart makes,” in real life (#IRL) our midnight mind wanderings and their meanings aren’t all that straightforward. In fact, if you’re anything like me, a dream – whether sappy, sad, or frightening – is moreso a mystery wrapped in an enigma.

Constantly faced with death? Showing up to school or work in your birthday suit on a consistent basis? Maybe you’re expecting a golden child? No matter the scenario, we’ve got you covered with quick tips on interpreting visions, courtesy of Lauri Loewenberg, author of So What Did You Dream Last Night? and founder of thedreamzone.com.

So, without further ado, let’s get down to business. If you’re…

Falling – Lauri Loewenberg tells Today, this dream is a “red flag from your subconscious.” According to Loewenberg, this REM sleep vision is common in people facing a major life crisis in “finances, a relationship or their career.” It can also signal depression.

Take this dream as a sign to “redirect the situation immediately! Falling dreams are also common for people who suffer from depression.”

Showing up to work or school naked – Represents vulnerability and anxiety. According to research, this dream is common for people who have recently started a new chapter in their life, for instance a promotion at work.

Dying – By far the most disturbing dream of all. Loewenberg suggests that death dreams are actually about “changes, endings and letting go.” If you dream about someone you love dying, say your child for instance, it’s not a warning of what’s to come but rather a reflection of how you feel about a season he or she has entered. Milestones such as learning to ride a bike, potty training or starting at a new school often trigger these dreams.

Meanwhile, dreaming of your own demise indicates the tide is turning – you’re about to emerge into the new you. In other words, it’s not the body but the end of your current life as you know it.

Spouse cheating on you – No! Dreaming about your partner having a steamy affair is NOT reasonable grounds to swipe and search your man’s phone. According to Loewenberg, “The cheating dream happens when your mate is spending too much time and attention on something that does not involve you.” On the other hand, this dream should not be ignored, as it may be hinting at a lack of trust in a romantic relationship.

Being chased – While being chased may feel like a Nightmare on Elm’s Street, when someone or something is hot on your heels, it’s a good indication that you’re avoiding something #IRL. Loewenberg advises you to ask yourself, “Self, am I trying to avoid a confrontation with someone? Am I trying to get out of a responsibility or obligation? Or is there something from my past that I’m afraid might catch up with me?”

Whatever the case may be, this dream should encourage you to face that situation you’ve been avoiding – or make something right. “Stop running! Face the situation. Get it over with, otherwise the issue will continue to follow you … and so will your “being chased” dreams,” Loewenberg continued.

Being pregnant, when in fact you’re not – Loewenberg believes this dream represents a need or a new idea that has recently come to an individual. So… go for it!