The symbolic meaning of the dragonfly deals with:
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Mind
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Dreams
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Balance
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Thoughts
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Awareness
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Living to the fullest
Because of it is a creature of water (which symbolically deals with thoughts, dreams and intuition), the dragonfly is a symbol of our thoughts. We can use it as an emblem of balanced mind because the dragonfly represents the two realms of thought.
The dragonfly skitters across the surface of the water which is symbolic of our “top thoughts” the daily, surface thoughts that primarily keep us in auto-pilot.
But the dragonfly knows she is standing on the vast watery depth of endlessly profound and potentially life-altering thoughts: The murky mass of thoughts that represent our primordial divinity – a virtual powder-keg of expansive expression.
And so, the dragonfly is the fulcrum between mundane and mystical. She is the balance keeper between the “little me” and the “God self.” This is why the dragonfly is a perfect tool for meditation, and is often used by spiritual practitioners in meditation practices (an example of using the dragonfly in a meditation can be found here).
Additionally, as creature aof the wind, the dragonfly totem represents change. It’s iridescent wings are incredibly sensitive to the slightest breeze, and so we are reminded to heed where the proverbial wind blows – lest we run into stormy weather.
The Dragonfly lives a short life, and it knows it must live to the fullest with what it has. This lesson is huge for each of us. When you see a dragonfly, be aware of the gifts it has to offer by keeping its animal totem meanings in mind.
Dragonfly Totems Facilitate:
- Greater attention to the nuances and subtleties around us
- Awareness & gratitude of inner beauty
- Awareness of outer beauty, and ability to share it modestly with the world
- Knowledge of life’s brevity, and understanding the importance of making every minute special
It should be clear this insect totem has endless potential in changing our perspective, and enhancing our life experiences. Take the time to connect with this and other insect totems and you will be amazed at the doors they can open for you.
This is a fascinating view of dragonflies. Its interesting to note they are often linked with the supernatural, as film Dragonfly (2002) with Kevin Costner and the children’s fantasy book publishing company with that name imply. Its worthwhile to reflect on our references and cultural associations. They’re based on more than cartoon characters and tattoo parlors.
The image of the dragonfly ignites the creative fire of our imagination. Living in an aura of fairy worlds beyond the normal human view, the dragonfly’s fluttering wings inspire thoughts of magic, travel and entering faraway worlds. They flit from point A to point B, within sight yet always out of reach. We can transcend our self-created illusions and embrace changes that await.
Hi Liara!
As usual, your comment made me pause to reflect, and I’m grateful for the added insight.
If I may quote your blog post (quite fittingly on 7/7/07) about Animalistic Tendencies…
Brilliance!
Love & light,
A.
I was involved in univestiy yesterday in a group distance healing for our tutor who had fallen and hurt her ankle. Towards the end of the session I saw a dragonfly it was tumbling down in spirals gently like the leaf from a sycamore.
I found your site to look to explain a symbolic meaning for its presence in my mind.
My interpretation for its presence maybe was the balance of unity in though from the group and as it appeared towards the natural end of the healing maybe it was showing the natural end to the work.
I would be interested to hear your views.
May the blessing of the universe be upon you.
L.
Hello. I have been fearful and dreading a plane trip to see my sister for several months. I prayed and asked to be shown a sign that it was ok for me to go. While outside, I could hear a dragonfly and saw it flying around a nearby tree. Then after returning indoors, there was a dragonfly attached to the outside of my screen door, peering into my kitchen, and it did not leave until the next morning. I know it symbolized the freedom to fly and to live life to the fullest, without fear. Thank you for your site and explaining the symbolism to me.