The Significance of Symbols

Symbols are profound expressions of our intellect, emotions, and spirit. . . .  A symbol can represent  deep intuitive wisdom that eludes direct expression.  Symbols can be found in our dreams, but also in our waking state.

Through the centuries, symbols, in their infinite forms, have enriched people’s lives.  Cultures in all parts of the world have built upon a universal understanding of symbols to better understand  well-being of mind, body, and spirit. 

Often in analysis and in deep spiritual work, clients are asked to identify and focus on symbols that appear in their dreams and in their waking lives.  These symbols may, for example, appear in their drawings and over time become highly personalized, take on deeper levels of meaning, and come to help the client express aspects of the psyche that may be difficult to put into words.  Symbols can be guides to help the person reconcile aspects of the psyche.  All major religious traditions have used the power of symbols in the quest for inner peace and spiritual knowledge.

Did you know?

 THE RIVER

Seen as a life-source, rivers carry potent meanings.  They can represent the boundaries between life and death.  In Hindu belief, rivers symbolize purification.

 ICE AND SNOW

Ice symbolizes coldness, rigidity, and stillness, both in humans and in nature.  Therefore, snow as a form of “softer” ice often expresses the return of life.  Snow can stand for truth and individuality.

 THE MUSHROOM

The Chinese revere the mushroom as the symbol for happiness and rebirth.  It was believed to be the food of the Taoist immortals.

 THE PEACOCK

In Christian art, the peacock represents immortality.  Buddhists believe that the bird’s 100-eyed tail is a symbol of compassionate watchfulness.

 THE MOUNTAIN

The meeting place of heaven and earth, the mountain symbolizes eternity and ascent from animal to spiritual nature.