Have you noticed your dreams are particularly vivid lately? You’re not alone: with more time to linger in bed amid the coronavirus outbreak, we’re forced into a deeper sleep, allowing us room to reflect. Our dreams tend to signify what’s on our mind and affecting us in the real world; with global anxieties heightened, it’s no wonder our visions are mirroring our current stress. Worries about being diagnosed with the virus or maintaining a career from home take on a symbolic form as you doze off—the more intense your fears are, the more realistic your dreams may seem. If you’re confused about what specific visions may mean, check out the guide below to help decipher what’s beneath the surface of your sleep session.

Nature/Trees

Dreams about the environment may seem contradictory considering what’s going on in the world, as we’re spending significantly less time outdoors. “When dreams take place outside, they’re actually connected to a life issue that needs to be or has recently been brought out in the open,” explains professional dream analyst Lauri Loewenberg. “Imagining yourself outdoors can be your mind's way of trying to center and free itself from worry.” Additionally, many of nature’s inherent characteristics can embody your own traits at this time. “Tree roots are securely grounded into the earth, while the limbs have the flexibility to withstand many storms,” says angel intuitive and spiritual teacher Colleen St. Michaels. “This message is guiding you to reset your energy and stand in your power by owning what you have control over: your thoughts, actions and response to life.” 


Dying

Try not to worry too much: this illusion doesn’t necessarily signify that you or someone you know is at death’s door. “Typically, dying in a dream is about something in your life that’s changing or coming to an end,” Loewenberg declares. “During this particular time, it can be connected to fears of loved ones catching the virus, but on a deeper level, it reflects the changes we’re all going through.” Elements of life—the way we used to socialize, travel and go out in public—have metaphorically “died off,” and your dreams have taken notice of that drastic shift. To reinstate a sense of liveliness to your existence, take part in activities you’re passionate about while at home, and be sure to stay connected to your friends digitally.


Being chased

Envisioning someone or something hunting you down is your mind’s way of hinting that you’re hoping to avoid something. “It can mean that there’s a confrontation you don’t want to have or a responsibility you don’t want to deal with,” Loewenberg claims. “Additionally, this illusion echoes how we’re all ‘running’ from infection.” When you open your eyes from this vision, make it your mission to confront the truth rather than avoid reality. “Holding onto unhealthy situations or patterns in your thinking, as well as behaviors that aren’t supporting you, will prevent you from taking steps forward,” St. Michaels confirms.


Family

Imagining members of your family as you snooze highlights how you should be spending more time with them during quarantine. “Perhaps you’re worried about sickness and losing a loved one,” St. Michaels suggests. “Your vision may even signify unspoken feelings or emotions you have toward someone.” During the day, make it a point to review how you communicate with your family and if that interaction can be improved upon. On the other hand, if you’re in lockdown alone, dreaming of parents or siblings could simply mean that you miss them; schedule a FaceTime or Zoom call to help alleviate long-distance woes!


Water/being underwater

Considering the concerns that come with the pandemic, dreams of drowning, floods and tidal waves are very common. “Water tends to represent our emotions, as both are very fluid,” Loewenberg notes. “If you see yourself drowning, or the water in your vision is threatening you in some way, then that indicates how you’re feeling overwhelmed and are having a hard time keeping your head up.” The specific conditions of the water can also set the tone of the dream, as well as help you to interpret its significance. “Is it peaceful or turbulent? Clear or murky?” St. Michaels inquiries. If the circumstances are unpleasant, set some time aside for self-care (i.e., a DIY manicure or workout sesh) to calm your mindset when you’re awake.


Exes/past relationships

As the virus continues to spread, regular dates and outings are placed on pause, often causing us to fall back into reminiscing about loved ones from the past. “I’ve found that single people are dreaming of their exes 25 percent more right now than normal,” says Loewenberg. “Since the lockdown, a lot of us have had a lot more time on our hands, and it’s causing some serious introspection about ourselves and our interpersonal relationships.” However, the subconscious brain is not only resorting to previous partners to compensate for loneliness—it’s forcing us to contemplate future connections as well. “You’re given the chance to evaluate what you liked and what you didn’t like in that ex,” Loewenberg explains. “That way, when it’s time to get back out in the world, you’re well-prepared to find the right person!”


Spiraling out of control

Life is conflicting and confusing at the moment, and your dreams are not necessarily impervious to that. “The outbreak most likely has you feeling vulnerable, causing a disconnect from your mind, body and spirit,” says St. Michaels. “Envisioning yourself out of control signifies a rise in anxiety about the future, as well as inner resistance to accept your current reality.” An illusion of this kind is not something to take lightly—consider it a message that should be reflected upon once you open your eyes. “Pinpoint what, exactly, in your real life makes you feel the same way you felt in the dream,” Loewenberg recommends. “Is it a fear of the virus itself, or is it about a job or relationship?” Once you figure out the source of the mayhem, establish a plan of action to correct it. “Our dreams are honest reflections of our waking lives. If they’re continually stressful, disturbing or frustrating, then you should redirect your thoughts,” Loewenberg asserts. Rather than brooding on what’s concerning you, focus on making your visions more productive; for example, if you find yourself constantly stressing about finances, formulate a side hustle or study smarter ways to save and manage money. By taking the reins over your distress, the tone of your dreams will experience a significant shift for the better.