Dream Deciphering

Wednesday, June 14, 2000 | 10:08 a.m.

According to the Dream Doctor website -- www.dreamdoctor.com -- here are some common symbols or themes in dreaming and their possible meanings:

Airplanes: Frequently symbolize change, transitions and attempts to reach new destinations. It's important to notice if the plane reaches its destination to determine where one feels they are in achieving that goal.

Being attacked: Frequently means a feeling of being attacked emotionally in the waking life. If the attacker is identified, you may know the culprit behind the distress.

Bridges: A symbol of transition that may appear in a transitional period in your life. Important to note if you cross the bridge or not, meaning: Do you reach your destination?

Cars/driving: Highly personal, indicating the direction you are going in life. Pay attention to who is driving, how fast the vehicle is going, and whether is it traveling safely or is out of control.

Exams: Taking tests in dreams often is concerned with graduation and more. Are you able to achieve the social, economic or familial status you want?

Falling: Common symbol for uncertainty, especially about the future. Can indicate a feeling of loss of control about things to come.

Hair: Losing hair is a common symbol of concern over age and lose of beauty. Long hair is a symbol of creativity; short hair is a symbol of stifled creativity.

Nudity: Associated with feelings of exposure and vulnerability. Naked-in-public dreams typically mean a fear that people can see through a social disguise; naked at work may mean a feeling of being unprepared.

Sex: Usually speaks for itself, but it can stand for other things as well, such as a co-worker you work closely with and think of as a "good partner."

Teeth: Losing teeth is a reflection of concerns about physical and social appearances, and effectiveness in a competitive environment. It can also reflect literal concerns about dental conditions or appearances.

Water: Universal symbol for emotions. Look at how the water behaves. Rising, turbulent or choppy water and tidal waves are negative images. Clear water, however, suggests emotional clarity, and calm water means you're at peace.