Water is also a symbol of the spiritual life force. In most cultures there are tales of healing waters and in dreams, as in baptism, to be immersed in water is to be spiritually cleansed. As the governing element of the Zodiac signs of Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces, it is said to endow people born under that sign with the feminine qualities of gentleness and changeability.
Dreams of entering water suggest refreshment, healing and beginning something new. Deep water, pools and lakes are symbols of the unconscious or of being out of your depth, while shallow water represents a lack of energy. To dream of drawing water from a tap or well, or to be drinking it is in general a positive and creative sign. However, to spill water suggests setbacks. Flowing water signifies peace and security. To be immersed in water suggests pregnancy and birth or new beginnings, and coming out of water also suggests a fresh start. Fast-flowing water suggests lively encounters and fastmoving action; deep, still water suggests hidden depths, whilst also possibly warning against a person of few words with a hidden agenda.
If you see your reflection in water, this suggests the transient nature of life since the reflection can easily be lost.
The imagery may serve as a caution against trusting unworthy friends or projects.
If, in your dream, the water is dirty or muddy, it means your feelings are influenced by outer circumstances, worries, material problems, or values. If, however, the water is clear and sparkling, it symbolizes faith, honesty, hope and joy. Have you dreamed of boiling water? If you have, this may indicate the need to let off some steam. Is anything welling up that needs your attention? If you are on the water, for example in a boat, this suggests lack of emotional commitment, whilst to be in the water but not moving suggests fatigue.
If you dream of the elements of water and air clashing—such as strong winds creating a stormy sea—the symbolism suggests you might be contemplating human emotion in general, with all its ebb and flow from rage to calm and rage again. Finally, don’t forget that dreams featuring water may simply be triggered by raging thirst or a full bladder while you sleep. [1]