Dreams about insects are a common theme at bedtime. If you or a loved one has been covering this ground at night, you may have questions about what it all might mean. As part of a Huffington Post series on dreams and their meanings, we spoke to Cynthia Richmond, author of "Dream Power," and frequent guest on shows like "Oprah" and "Dr. Phil," in Camp Verde, Ariz., to get expert advice about the meanings of dreams about spiders. Note: While dream analysis is highly subjective, this post might provide some insight into why this dream occurred or is recurring.
What do dreams about insects mean?Richmond says each insect has its own associations. However, when dreaming about insects in general, the dreamer should ask herself what's been annoying or pestering her.
Are there any tricks to avoiding or inducing dreams about insects?"The only real trick to not having a certain dream is to interpret and understand the meaning so your subconscious mind stops sending the symbol," notes Richmond. To dream about insects, visualize them before dozing off.
Beyond analysis, what cultural symbolism can be found in dreams about insects?"In Egypt, the beetle is associated with immortality. Bees are associated in many cultures with hard work and organization, as well as producing sweetness, food and the substance of life," says Richmond.
Who tends to have dreams about insects most frequently?Dreaming about insects is common among males and females of all ages.
What does it mean if I'm completely surrounded/overwhelmed by insects in a dream?"If you are completely surrounded or overwhelmed by insects, you are probably so annoyed by something or someone that you are ready to freak out," Richmond tells us. "If you are phobic to the insect, you are either ready to overcome the phobia -- by facing it-- or something has pushed you to your limit."
Cynthia Richmond is a board certified behavioral therapist, educator, speaker and author of "Dream Power." She writes a regular column titled, "In Your Dreams" for The Los Angeles Times and has appeared as a dream expert on "Oprah," "Entertainment Tonight," "The View," "Donny and Marie" and "Dr. Phil." In addition, Richmond provides live dream interpretations on InfiniteQuest.com.