Dream On: What it means if you’re dreaming about your ex-partner

Alexa, play 'Boulevard of Broken Dreams'

The subconscious mind is a complex part of our psyche, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and behaviour, mainly in ways we are unaware of.

Many believe that dreams are the subconscious mind's way of revealing important information to them.

We often have dreams that feature people we don't know that well, as well as ones about our ex-partners.

While it may just be a dream, an ex creeping into our minds while we're sleeping can bring up a range of emotions, especially if you're in a new relationship.

But what does it mean?

Dreaming about an ex is not uncommon and research suggests the occurrence of an ex in dreams can depend on your current relationship status.

This, at least, is a relief to hear.

When an ex features in our dreams, it may also be our subconscious forcing us to delve into our romantic and emotional world, according to psychologist Dr Veronika Matutyte.

“They can signify longing, unresolved emotions, or reflections on the current state of your romantic life," Dr Matutye explains to GLAMOUR.

She adds that our dreams often feature people we interact with regularly or hold emotional significance in our lives, with an ex likely falling into the latter.

The Sleep Foundation states that sometimes a dream of an ex can represent another element in your life.

They suggest considering how you feel about this ex and what memories are connected to them.

Any emotions associated with them or the memories may be the more significant component of the dream rather than the ex themselves.

However, if you're keen to make sense of their appearance, Dr. Matutyte recommends keeping a dream journal to help analyse your dream.

Dream journals can help track recurring themes, emotions, and patterns.

Dr Matutye also recommends reflecting on your dream journal findings in your waking life to better understand dream symbolism.

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