Understanding the Dream of Flying Amidst Anxiety

Dreams involving flight are among the most liberating experiences one can have during sleep. They often symbolize a desire for freedom, escapism, or a new perspective on life. However, when these dreams are accompanied by feelings of anxiety, they may carry a complex message about the dreamer's emotional state.

The sensation of soaring through the air can bring exhilaration, yet if one feels anxious while flying, it may reflect inner turmoil or apprehension about life's challenges. This dual experience can serve as a mirror, reflecting not just aspirations but also fears and doubts. Understanding the connection between the desire to fly and the anxiety felt during such dreams can provide profound insights into one’s life circumstances and emotional health.

As with all dreams, interpretation requires a blend of personal reflection and knowledge from traditional sources, such as the esteemed works of Ibni Sirin.

• Dreaming of flying often represents a yearning for freedom.
• Feeling anxious during flight indicates underlying fears or challenges.
• Such dreams can reflect personal situations causing stress.
• Balancing aspirations with life pressures is key to understanding the dream.
• Consulting knowledgeable individuals can provide further insights.

Symbols

• gliding
  • Seizing:

    (Holding; Seizing) Gripping to somethingby the hand in a dream means buying a new property, renewal of one’s control over something, getting married or begetting a son.

  • Slipping:
  • Under garment:

    (Under garment; Underpants) In a dream, a slip represents a free woman. A woman wearing an underwear slip in a dream denotes marriage. If she is wearing a flashy red slip in the dream, it means that she will be accused of wrongdoing.

    If a respectable woman adventures with her slip into the streets in a dream, it means that her misfortune will become the talk of the town.

• feeling anxious
  • Uptight:

    (Anxious; Disheartened; Dispirited) Feeling uptight in a dream may mean an illness or death.

  • Attrition:

    (Anxiety; Perturbation; Uneasiness) Worries in a dream mean regret, repentance, blaming oneself, attrition and remorse.

  • Remorse:

    (Anxiety; Perturbation; Uneasiness) Worries in a dream mean regret, repentance, blaming oneself, attrition and remorse.

• apprehensive
  • Anxious:
  • Attrition:

    (Anxiety; Perturbation; Uneasiness) Worries in a dream mean regret, repentance, blaming oneself, attrition and remorse.

  • Remorse:

    (Anxiety; Perturbation; Uneasiness) Worries in a dream mean regret, repentance, blaming oneself, attrition and remorse.

• nervous
  • Nerves:

    One’s nerves in a dream represent his comportment, bearing and pres¬ ence. Irritation of one’s nerves in a dream means distress and sorrow. If a nerve is cut off in a dream, it represents a broken life, and for a sick person it represents his death.

    In a dream, a nerve also represents a master, or a sire, piety, a signing witness, agreements, provisions, property, or family ties. Whatever affects one’s nerves in a dream will reflect upon any of the above. (Also see Body')

  • Pulsate:
  • Uptight:

    (Anxious; Disheartened; Dispirited) Feeling uptight in a dream may mean an illness or death.

• flying
  • Flying:

    Flying in a dream means travels. If one sees himself flying lying on his back, then it means comfort. Flying for other than a traveller means joblessness.

    Flying from one roof into another in a dream means changing from a man of dignity into a man who has no moral standards. In a dream, a roof also represents a woman or a wife. In this sense, flying bet ween two roofs could mean having a mistress beside one’s wife.

    If a woman sees herself flying from her house into the house of a man she knows in the dream, it means that she will marry him. Flying from a known abode into a distant and unknown abode in a dream means death. If a prisoner sees himself flying in a dream, it means that he will be released from jail.

    Flying with wings in a dream also means travels, and flying without wings means changes in one’s status or conditions. If a foreigner sees himself flying in a dream, it means that he will return to his homeland, or it could mean that he travels excessively. If one who has pride and exaggerated hopes sees himself flying in a dream, then his dream represents mere hallucination.

    If one sees himself in a dream flying in a race with someone else, and if he wins the race, it means that he will conquer his opponent and rise 172 IBN SEERIN’S above him in station. Flying over a mountain in a dream means power and sovereignty. If one who qualifies for leadership sees himself flying in a dream, it means that he will attain a leadership position.

    If he falls over something in the dream, it means that he will own or control whatever he falls into. If one does not qualify for leadership and sees himself flying in a dream, it represents pitfalls in his religious performances, or it could mean falling sick. If one does attain his intended destination in the dream, then his dream connotes a successful journey.

    If one flies in his dream and disappears beyond sight, it means his death. If one flies from his own house into an unknown house in the dream, the latter house represents his grave. Flying in a dream also represent a sickness that could lead a person near his death before he could recover from it.

    If one flies from a low elevation into a higher one and without wings in his dream, it means fulfillment of his aspirations. If one soars in the air like a pigeon in a dream and sees people below him, whereby he can benefit or harm whomever he wants, it means that he will preside over people and reach a rank of honor and dignity. If one becomes tired during his flight between tow cities or places and finds himself incapable of benefiting or harming anyone, and if he seeks nothing from his flight but is still happy about flying in the dream, it means that he is trying to find money for his personal needs or business.

    If one sees himself flying from one land into another in a dream, it means that he will attain honor, power, comfort and satisfaction. If one sees himself flying hori¬ zontally in the dream, it means that his wife will straighten her act and without much effort on his part. If one sees himself flying vertically with his head up and his feet pointing to the ground in the dream, it means that he will receive benefits.

    The more he rises, the greater are his benefits. If rich people or craftsmen see that dream, it represents a leadership position they could occupy. If a foreigner sees that in a dream, it means that he will return to his mother land, or it could mean that he will never return to his homeland again.

    Flying with wings in a dream means benefits in general. Soaring high in the air and without wings in a dream means fears and hardships. Flying over people’s homes and over the streets in a dream means difficulties and disturbances.

    Flying near a flock of birds in a dream means associating, living or working with unknown people. If an evil person sees that, it means a bad omen, and for a fisherman it means sufferings or death. Flying in the air at a low altitude in a dream means taking a short trip.

    If one sees himself flying at will and ceasing to fly at will in a dream, it means easing of his burdens and expectation of great benefits to come his way. Seeing oneself in a dream flying upside-down means evil happening. If a sick person sees himself flying in the air in a dream, it means that he will die from his illness.

    If one sees himself laying over his bed and flying with it in a dream, it means a severe illness or an ailment that will strike at his legs. Enjoying flying between the sky and the earth in a dream means having exaggerated hopes. Flying in a dream also means seeking a destructive knowl¬ edge, or pursuing an evil idea, or associating with villainous and notorious people, or it could mean being in a hurry, or that one takes lightly a serious project, then fails to accomplish it because of his angry character.

    Flying in a dream also denotes extreme happiness, or it could mean superstition. If one flies from a bad place into a good place such as a farm or a mosque in his dream, it means benefits and growth.

  • Aircraft:

    (Airplane; Coffin; Flying ship; Knowledge. Also see Kite; Ship)

  • Wings:

    (Guild) If one sees himself flying with wings in a dream, it means travel. Wings in a dream also represent one’s children. If one sees his wings feathered, this could represent his prosperity or authority.

    If someone sees himself flying with someone else’s wings in the dream, it means that he will receive his help and support. In that sense, traditional people say: “So and so flew with so and so’s wings.” Having wings and not using them to fly with in a dream means acquiring worldly wealth. A broken wing in a dream represents a severe illness one’s son may attract.

    If one experiences the excruciating pain from his wings being pulled off his shoulders in a dream, it may mean the death of his son. A wing that does not allow one to fly in a dream means a wound or a permanent scar in one’s life that will slow his progress. It also could represent a punishment for one’s sins.

• soaring
  • Climb:

    (Climbing; Rising) To see oneself ascending in the skies in a dream means falling in rank, or it could mean oppressing oneself. If one sees himself ascending in the skies until he reaches the stars, merges with them and if he becomes a star in the dream, it means that he will receive titles and powers. If one sees himself ascending a mountain it means depression, stress and travels.

    However, rising in a dream means elevation of status, and descending means a backslide. If one sees himself walking up a steep road in a dream, it means rising in status, but involving toiling and hardships. If one sees himself climbing a mountain, then the mountain in a dream is interpreted as one’s goal.

    Thus, one’s dream may mean attaining one’s goal as far as he reaches in his climb. In dream interpretation, any ascent of a mountain, a trail, a hill, an elevation or even climbing a roof means attaining one’s goal or satisfying one’s needs. To see oneself climbing flat on his back in a dream then means uncalled for, orunnecessary hardship.

  • Rising:

    (Climbing; Rising) To see oneself ascending in the skies in a dream means falling in rank, or it could mean oppressing oneself. If one sees himself ascending in the skies until he reaches the stars, merges with them and if he becomes a star in the dream, it means that he will receive titles and powers. If one sees himself ascending a mountain it means depression, stress and travels.

    However, rising in a dream means elevation of status, and descending means a backslide. If one sees himself walking up a steep road in a dream, it means rising in status, but involving toiling and hardships. If one sees himself climbing a mountain, then the mountain in a dream is interpreted as one’s goal.

    Thus, one’s dream may mean attaining one’s goal as far as he reaches in his climb. In dream interpretation, any ascent of a mountain, a trail, a hill, an elevation or even climbing a roof means attaining one’s goal or satisfying one’s needs. To see oneself climbing flat on his back in a dream then means uncalled for, orunnecessary hardship.

  • Incline:

    (Incline; Mountain road; Steep incline) If one sees himself climbing a steep incline in a dream, it means toiling to succeed in both his material and spiritual life, or it could mean trying to gather the benefits of both worlds, though with great strain on him . An ascent in a dream also could signify a difficult woman or a stern man who can only be handled with kindness, gentleness and love. An ascent in a dream also represents one’s associate, or a business partner who cannot be trusted with one’s money or life.

    An ascent in a dream also represents the road to salvation or the dangers one may have to cross and the deeds that can save him from hell-fire. An ascent in a dream also could represent adversities, difficulties and dangers. Ascending a steep incline in a dream means danger and descending a steep hill means reaching safety.

    An ascent in a dream also could represent a bridge, an underpass, a wife, a woman, or a scorpion. Walking through a steep incline in a dream also means rising in station because of one’s knowledge, politics, good conduct, fulfillment of one’s duties, his caring for others or wisdom. Falling through a steep hill in a dream means falling in rank, losing one’s prestige, losing one’s money, denying the truth, objecting to one’s religion or walking into darkness.

    Climbing in a dream always means attainment of one’s goals. Climbing flat on one’s back in a dream has negative connotations. Descending from a steep hill, or from a ship, or coming down form a castle or a mountain in a dream also mean that one’s goal will not materialize.

Practical Suggestions for Understanding Your Flying Dreams

• Reflect on Recent Events

  Begin by assessing your waking life for events or changes that might trigger feelings of anxiety. Have there been significant changes, such as a new job, relationship issues, or health concerns? Journaling your thoughts can aid in connecting the dots between your dreams and reality.

  Take note of how you feel in your daily life when you experience stress, as this can mirror the emotions present during your dream. These reflections may reveal the part of your life where the desire for freedom clashes with anxiety.

• Practice Grounding Techniques

  If you frequently experience anxiety in dreams, consider incorporating grounding techniques into your daily routine. Practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing, or yoga can calm your mind and body, helping to alleviate stress. Such techniques not only enhance your emotional resilience but can also influence the nature of your dreams, possibly transforming them into more pleasant experiences.

  Cultivating a calming nighttime routine may ease anxiety, allowing for more peaceful sleep.

• Discuss with Trusted Individuals

  Connecting with trusted friends, family, or a counselor about your flying dreams and feelings of anxiety is invaluable. Sharing your thoughts can provide new perspectives and insights you may not have considered. Others might reflect their interpretations or relate their experiences, offering support.

  Additionally, seeking advice from individuals with knowledge in dream interpretation can lead to a deeper understanding of your dream content and its significance in your life.

• Explore Symbolic Meaning of Flight

  Engage with the symbol of flight in a deeper way. Research about flight in dreams, understanding its common meanings. Reflect on what flight signifies to you personally.

  It can be interpreted as a signal of ambition, spiritual elevation, or a yearning for independence. By personalizing the meaning, you can decode your emotional landscape and the connection to anxiety in your dreams. Establishing such insight can steer you towards healing and empowerment.

• Embrace Creative Expression

  Transform your feelings of anxiety related to flying into creative expression. Whether through art, writing, or music, channeling your emotions creatively can offer both relief and clarity. Art allows you to depict your sensations during flying dreams, helping to process complex feelings.

  Moreover, expressing yourself can illuminate underlying issues contributing to your anxiety. Engaging in creative activities fosters a sense of fulfillment, potentially leading to more positive experiences in your dreams.

FAQs

• What does it mean to dream of flying while feeling anxious?

  Dreaming of flying while feeling anxious combines the notions of freedom and the weighing presence of fear. It may symbolize your aspirations or desires for liberation, clashing with real-life stresses or responsibilities. The anxiety indicates areas in your life where you may feel insecure or overwhelmed, revealing the need for introspection or personal development to align your dreams with reality.

• Are dreams of flying common?

  Yes, dreams of flying are quite common and often relate to feelings of empowerment or elation. However, when these dreams are coupled with anxiety, it's essential to delve into your feelings and experiences, as they may reflect personal struggles or unaddressed fears. Exploring the context of your life can aid in understanding the specific reasons behind your flying anxiety.

• How can understanding my flying dreams help reduce anxiety?

  Gaining insight into the meaning behind your flying dreams can facilitate emotional clarity and awareness. By acknowledging your feelings surrounding flight, you can address the source of your anxiety. Such understanding allows you to work through these emotions constructively, potentially transforming your dreams into a more positive experience, where flight is freed from feelings of apprehension.

• What steps can I take to have more positive flying dreams?

  To encourage positive flying dreams, consider maintaining a calm bedtime routine, practicing relaxation techniques, and reflecting positively on your day. Engaging in activities that bring joy and hope can influence your subconscious, paving the way for uplifting dreams. Additionally, confronting and addressing anxiety-inducing aspects of your life can prevent them from manifesting in your dreams.

• Should I seek professional help for recurring anxious dreams?

  If you find that your dreams are impacting your mental health or daily life, it may be beneficial to consult with a mental health professional. Recurring anxious dreams may point to underlying issues that require attention. A qualified expert can provide strategies tailored to your needs, fostering a better understanding of your emotions and the messages behind your dreams.

References