The dreamcatcher was originally devised as a protective charm for infants, believed to sift out bad dreams and permit only good thoughts to flow into our minds. Web: This is the dreamcatcher’s main feature, designed to ensnare bad dreams and prevent them from reaching the dreamer’s head.Feathers: These symbols of breath or air are usually attached so they hang from the center of the ring.Hoop: While its primary function is to serve as a frame for the web, some interpret the hoop as a representation of the circle of life.Beads: These can be seen as trapped good dreams if many are used, or they can represent the spider residing on the web if a single bead is placed in the center.This intricate piece is typically adorned with sacred items, each carrying specific symbolism:
This handmade object has its roots in Native American cultures, specifically among the Ojibwe and Lakota nations.Īt its core, the dreamcatcher is a willow hoop encompassing a woven net or web. The Cultural Significance of the Dreamcatcher: A Deeper Lookīefore we delve into the world of tattoo designs, it’s crucial to understand the cultural significance of the dreamcatcher.