Ever wonder what your dreams mean? Chester Wu, M.D., who is double board-certified in psychiatry and sleep medicine, has some answers. Here, he shares on the possible meanings of the top five most common dreams.
1. Dreams about teeth
Dreams about losing teeth or dental issues have been linked to anxiety, feelings of powerlessness, or fear of helplessness. Some research suggests that teeth-related dreams may also be linked to dental irritation during sleep, such as teeth grinding or clenching.
2. Nightmares
“Nightmares are more common in children than adults, but these dreams can occur at any age,” says Wu. “They can be caused by a variety of factors—including stress, anxiety, trauma, and sleep disorders—and can cause feelings of fear, anxiety, or even terror. From a biological perspective, nightmares occur during the REM phase of sleep, but the exact reasons for their themes or content remain unknown.”
3. Dreams about snakes
These dreams may be related to feelings of fear, anxiety, or uncertainty in waking life.
4. Dreams about being pregnant
According to Wu, dreaming about being pregnant may represent a desire for pregnancy as well as an inherent fear of becoming pregnant.
5. Sex Dreams
Intimate dreams can be a way to explore your sexuality, express your desires, or process your sexual experiences. They can also be a sign of stress, anxiety, and relationship problems. “While there is some understanding of the brain’s activity during such dreams—including increased activity in areas related to pleasure and emotion—the specific reasons for their occurrence aren’t well understood scientifically” says Wu.
Adds Wu, “Dreams, from teeth to snakes, pregnancy, nightmares, and intimate moments, unveil a spectrum of human emotions and concerns, providing a fascinating glimpse into the depths of the subconscious.”
