Briefly
Squirrels, with their lively energy and relentless preparation for winter, primarily symbolize resourcefulness, preparation, and balance. Their habit of storing food for harder times is a vivid representation of foresight and thriftiness. The playful and social nature of these creatures is also seen as an embodiment of fun, joy, and balance between work and play.
Squirrel in Dreams
From a psychological standpoint, dreaming of squirrels can be a manifestation of one’s anxieties related to lack of preparation or the need to save and gather. It could signify that the dreamer is either too focused on collecting and safeguarding materials in their life or is being warned to start doing so. The squirrel’s energetic and nimble nature might also represent the dreamer’s need to communicate or move in their waking life more effectively.
Squirrel in Myths and Folklore
While squirrels are not as prominent as other creatures in myths and legends, they do make appearances. In some Native American legends, squirrels are seen as messengers or even creatures of mischief and humor. In Norse mythology, Ratatoskr is a squirrel who runs up and down the world tree, Yggdrasil, transmitting messages and stirring tension between an eagle at the top and a dragon below, representing the conveyance of information, even if it’s gossip or discord.
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Reviewed by Alexander Lys, M.L., a specialist in the field of symbolism research and dream psychology. A certified participant in numerous psychological seminars and courses, the author of hundreds of articles on psychology, including studies on symbolism in dreams and myths from a scientific perspective.