Do Dreamcatcher Tattoos Catch Bad Dreams?

While dreamcatcher tattoos are inspired by traditional Native American dreamcatchers, which are believed to filter out negative dreams, this power is more symbolic rather than literal. However, these tattoos hold deep personal significance and can symbolize protection and the intention to ward off negativity.

Motivations for Choosing Dreamcatcher Tattoos

Many people opt for dreamcatcher tattoos due to their aesthetic appeal and the personal meaning they attach to them. The choice of location can also have symbolic significance. For instance, a shoulder or back tattoo can be a powerful protection against bad thoughts and emotions, symbolizing a desire for freedom. A wrist tattoo, although feminine and sensual, also offers a protective element. Meanwhile, a tattoo on the neck can protect against daily problems and aid in difficult situations.

My Personal Experience

For me, a dreamcatcher tattoo has been a part of my life for 15 years, and I seldom have bad dreams. It’s hard to discern if this tattoo is the reason, or if it’s simply that I’ve grown out of having bad dreams. Another intriguing fact is that after my husband, who was Native American, made dreamcatchers and sold them at pow wows, I received all his dreamcatchers and gave them to our grandchildren after his passing. My dreamcatcher tattoo is a remembrance of him. Yet, I remain uncertain whether a tattoo works the same way as an actual dreamcatcher, which is made to be hung above the sleeper to catch bad dreams.

Do Dreamcatcher Tattoos Work Like Actual Dreamcatchers?

From a practical perspective, dreamcatchers are meant to be hung above the bed or sleeper, thereby catching bad dreams. Contrary to some beliefs, it’s not certain that a traditional dreamcatcher can physically catch dreams. While it might work symbolically, the efficacy of a tattoo is more interpretive. However, if a dreamcatcher does indeed work, a dreamcatcher tattoo might function as well or even better due to its permanence.

Empirical Evidence

There have been anecdotal reports suggesting that getting a dreamcatcher tattoo can result in fewer bad dreams. For instance, one user reported:

I have a dream catcher tattoo and I have fewer bad dreams.

While I am not entirely convinced by this, it’s an interesting idea. If a regular physical dreamcatcher can work in this way, logically, a tattoo would work as well or even better. Thus, while it might not literally catch bad dreams, a dreamcatcher tattoo can serve as a powerful symbol of protection and intention.