Most of us have experienced "dreams that come back." Recurring dreams occur in both children and adults but may have different characteristics in each stage of development.
Recurring dreams in young children frequently take the form of nightmares. Their thought processes are quite different than those of older children and adults, and dream symbols can be vivid and terrifying. Young children are sensitive and "impressionable." Something heard and misunderstood during the day can evolve into a nightmare. For instance, a three year old who hears her parents arguing frequently may have recurring dreams about something happening to them. Certain fears that a child develops and does not resolve in childhood may manifest as recurring dreams that carry into adulthood.
In adults, recurring dreams are often less frightening and more indicative of ongoing emotional issues or fears. For instance, a fear of failure may become a recurring dream about being in school, failing a test or being punished. The dream may recur every time the dreamer is under stress about their performance or ability, such as starting a new job or worrying about an important task.
Dreams can be categorized as "recurring" even when some of the other symbols and scenes are not exactly the same. In fact, it makes sense that the other symbols will change as situations and feelings in waking life change. The main theme of the dream that repeats itself is what defines the dream as a recurring dream.
One of the most common recurring dreams reported by adults is that their teeth are falling out! Teeth may all fall out at once, break off or crumble. I have had tooth dreams in all three of those forms! These dreams usually show up when the dreamer is feeling insecure about changes in waking life, such as aging or finances.
Recurring dreams are not always scary. You may dream of travel to exotic lands or a beautiful garden each time you face a transition in your life. The dream may simply symbolize your emotional state at the time. For instance, you always dream of the beach when you're happy. On the other hand, your dream may be asking you to look at how you've handled the same situation in the past and warning you not to repeat past mistakes.
Keeping a dream journal is the best tool you can use to interpret your recurring dream. By keeping a record of the symbols in the dream and comparing it to what was going on in your life at the time, you can get a handle on how you are handling certain issues and situations. You might even be able to pinpoint exactly when your dream will recur, and you'll definitely have a handle on what's going on when it does.
Would you like help with interpreting your recurring dream? Post your questions in our Discussion Forum!
May all your dreams come true!
Parthena Black is a professional social worker and ordained minister with experience in tarot and runes. For private spiritual counseling and intuitive readings via e-mail, please visit her at oymygoddess.com
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