by Sylvia Browne

A popular question I always hear is, “Sylvia, what do my dreams mean?” People want to know how to understand dreams and dream symbols. Dream symbols can have many interpretations, not just a single one-line interpretation like a newspaper horoscope. Your dreams are interpreted by your very best dream dictionary: you! Your conscious and subconscious minds and wonderful body of experience are where dream symbols originate. Once you learn how to interpret dream symbols, you will be the one to define your dreams.

That being said, it is true that often some generalities about the meaning of dreams can be made. Some imagery and dream symbols can be very common and popular. No one—and I mean no one—dreams just the way you do. When you look at a dream symbol, always look first to how that symbol could apply to your current life circumstances. There is no “right” or “wrong” when it comes to interpretation—all that matters is that the answer resonates with you as the true and correct dream symbol interpretation.

To define dream symbols, begin by first understanding what type of dream you have had. Was it a wish dream, release dream, astral travel, lucid dream or a prophetic dream?

Some people don’t understand or believe that their dreams have symbols. Everyone’s dreams have symbols. Let’s do an exercise in personal symbols so that you understand them better. Even though you’re seeing these symbols while you are awake, this exercise will give you an idea of what symbols can mean to you. Get a piece of paper and a pen.

Now you will draw five objects: a house, the sun, water, a tree and a snake. Don’t worry about being a Picasso or the next Rembrandt. Just draw what you feel is right. Come back when you’ve finished your drawing. We’ll wait!

Did you finish your drawing? Okay, let’s interpret the symbols. You will see just how personal these symbols can be. Notice your impressions about each symbol before looking at the definitions.

The house. What are your first impressions about the house? The house is the symbol for you. Does your house have a door to invite people in? Is there a path to lead people into the house? Does the house have windows, to let people see in to you and you in to them? Is there a chimney for warmth? Does the house look good or like it needs extra care?

The sun. This is your father. How close is the sun to the house? Is the sun prominent in the sky? Does the sun give off warm rays?

The water. This is your mother. Is the water close to the house? What type of water did you draw? Is it a river or a pond?

The tree. This is your intellect. How large is the tree? Is it near the house? Is the tree strong and healthy?

The snake. This is your sexuality. How important is the snake in the drawing? How close is the snake to the house?

You can see now that everyone has conscious and subconscious reactions to symbols. So your dreams are full of symbols. Look for symbols in your dreams—as they are full of valuable meanings for you.

Love always,

Sylvia Browne

P.S. Dreams are rich with meaning and inspiration for us. Learn more about your dreams with my Book of Dreams. Discover the different types of dreams that we have all the time.

Sylvia Browne is without question, "America's #1 Psychic," an internationally known psychic and medium.