Unlocking the Wisdom of Your Dreams: A Guide to Interpretation

Our conscious mind likes to think it’s in charge. But in truth, it only holds a small sliver of the power that guides our thoughts, instincts, and emotions. Behind the scenes, our subconscious mind does most of the heavy lifting—constantly processing, prompting, and steering our decisions without us even noticing.

It’s a bit like government: the elected officials may appear to call the shots, but the civil servants behind the scenes are often the ones quietly shaping policy. Similarly, our subconscious lets our conscious mind believe it’s in control, while actually feeding it the feelings and impulses that govern much of our behaviour.

Fortunately, we’re not entirely shut off from this hidden part of ourselves. Poetry, art, theatre, dance, hypnosis, meditation, prayer, and rituals are just some of the tools we can use to tap into the rich, creative wellspring of the subconscious. But perhaps the most powerful tool of all is our dreams.

Sigmund Freud once described dreams as “the royal road to the unconscious”—a poetic way of saying they can reveal truths our waking minds might miss.

A Simple 5-Step Process for Interpreting Your Dreams

This dream interpretation method, which I first learned at a workshop back in 1990, has stayed with me ever since. It’s a simple but powerful way to gain insight and connect with the deeper layers of your psyche.

1. Keep a Dream Journal

Before you sleep, place a notebook and pen by your bed.  Say a prayer to your God or the Universe to reveal a dream for you. Or if there is some worry or big decision looming ask for guidance through your dreams.

2. Write the Dream Story

The moment you wake up—before even getting out of bed—write down any dreams that linger in your awareness. Even fragments are worth noting. The sooner you record your dream the better as dreams fade fast.

3. Draw Your Dream

As soon as possible in the day set aside about 15–30 minutes to do the interpretation work. First sketch an image from your dream. It doesn’t need to be a masterpiece—simple lines or abstract forms are enough. What matters is capturing the essence of what you saw or felt.

4. Write a Poem

Next, create a poem inspired by your dream. Let it flow freely. Start by describing the dream itself, then allow your intuition to take over. You might be surprised by the words and insights that emerge. This spontaneous poetic process often leads to powerful “aha” moments—feelings of recognition or release that can shift your perspective or guide you in a meaningful way.

5. Review Your Dreams Periodically

Every 3 to 6 months, take time to reread your dream journal and poems. Look for patterns—recurring symbols, animals, or themes. These repeating elements often hold personal significance.

For example, I’ve noticed that dogs and cats often appear in my dreams. Over time, I’ve come to see them as representations of different parts of myself. The cat reflects a part of me that’s independent, elegant, and self-contained—what you might call a feminine sub-personality. The dog, by contrast, embodies loyalty, playfulness, energy, and a sporty enthusiasm for life – a masculine sub-personality. My dreams suggest that I need to honour both these aspects of myself—and find a way to let them coexist and work together in harmony.

Let Your Dreams Speak

Socrates once said, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” And I’d add: dreams are a perfect place to begin that examination.

They offer a bridge to the unconscious—a place where healing, insight, and transformation can begin. All it takes is a little attention, a little creativity, and a willingness to look within.

Dream interpretation doesn’t require special knowledge—just curiosity, openness, and the willingness to reflect. With practice, your dreams can become trusted guides, whispering truths from the depths of your soul.

Ready to Begin?

Start tonight. Set out your journal. Sleep with intention. And when you wake, ask yourself:

What did I dream—and what might it be trying to tell me?

Let the journey inward begin. 💫