Dreaming of Weight Gain: Unraveling the Symbolism

In the enigmatic realm of dreams, weight gain emerges as a recurring motif, inviting introspection and exploration of its hidden meanings. Whether you find yourself gaining weight rapidly or struggling with obesity in your dreams, these experiences often hold profound symbolism that can shed light on your waking life.

So, what does it mean when you dream about weight gain? Join us as we delve into the depths of dream interpretation, uncovering the potential messages and insights embedded within these weight-related dreams.

Dreams about weight gain can evoke a range of emotions, from concern and anxiety to frustration and shame. Yet, it's crucial to remember that dreams are not literal representations of reality but rather symbolic expressions of our inner thoughts, feelings, and experiences.

To decipher the meaning behind your weight gain dreams, it's essential to consider the context, emotions, and other elements present in the dream. By carefully examining these details, you can unlock the hidden messages and gain valuable insights into your waking life.

Our exploration into weight gain dreams will shed light on the deeper significance of these enigmatic experiences, helping you navigate the complexities of your inner world. So, prepare to embark on a journey of self-discovery as we unravel the symbolism behind weight gain dreams.

What Does Weight Gain Symbolize in Dreams

Physical Health and Well-Being

Dreaming of weight gain could symbolize a decline in your physical health and well-being.

You may feel run down or not as fit as you used to be. This could indicate that you need to make some lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier and exercising more.

Weight gain in a dream could also be a sign of emotional distress. You may be feeling overwhelmed or stressed, and your body is manifesting this in the form of weight gain.

Additionally, weight gain in a dream could signify a lack of control in your life. You may feel like you are not in charge of your circumstances, and this is causing you to feel insecure and out of control.

Emotional and Psychological State

Weight gain in dreams can symbolize several aspects of your emotional and psychological state. It could indicate;

• Emotional Baggage: Carrying extra weight in your dream may represent accumulated emotional burdens and stressors in your waking life. It can signify feelings of being overwhelmed, stressed, burdened, or struggling to cope with life's challenges.

• Low Self-Esteem: Weight gain in dreams might reflect lingering feelings of low self-worth, insecurity, and self-doubt. It may suggest a sense of unworthiness or negative body image that you carry with you.

• Unresolved Issues: Weight gain in dreams can symbolize unresolved issues, particularly those related to past experiences or relationships. The extra weight in your dream could represent the emotional baggage you are holding onto, preventing you from moving forward.

• Lack of Control: Weight gain in dreams can point to a feeling of losing control in certain areas of your life. It might indicate that you feel overwhelmed by external circumstances or internal struggles. The weight symbolizes the pressure and lack of agency you experience.

• Transition or Growth: Weight gain in dreams can sometimes signal a period of transition or personal growth. It may represent the accumulation of knowledge, experiences, or wisdom that you are acquiring as you navigate life's challenges.

Burden or Stress

Dreaming of weight gain can symbolize feeling burdened or stressed. This could be due to a variety of factors, such as a difficult situation at work or school, problems in your personal life, or financial difficulties. The dream may be a way for your subconscious to process these feelings and find a way to cope with them.

For example, if you are feeling overwhelmed by a difficult project at work, you may dream of gaining weight. This dream could be a metaphor for the pressure you are feeling and the sense that you are carrying a heavy load. Alternatively, if you are struggling with a difficult relationship, you may dream of gaining weight as a way to express your feelings of emotional burden.

If you are experiencing dreams of weight gain, it is important to try to identify the source of your stress or burden. Once you have identified the problem, you can start to develop strategies for coping with it. This may include talking to a friend or family member, seeking professional help, or making changes to your lifestyle.

Unresolved Issues and Baggage

Dreaming about weight gain often symbolizes unresolved issues and baggage that you are carrying in your waking life. The extra weight in the dream represents the emotional or psychological burdens that you are holding onto. This could be anything from past trauma, to current stressors, to unresolved conflicts. The dream is a way for your subconscious mind to show you that you need to let go of this baggage in order to move forward.

For example, if you dream that you are struggling to carry a heavy backpack, this could symbolize the emotional weight of a difficult relationship or situation that you are dealing with. The dream is telling you that you need to let go of the negative emotions and thoughts that are associated with this situation in order to move on.

Comfort and Nurturing

Weight gain in dreams can symbolize comfort and nurturing. Just as gaining weight in real life can provide a sense of comfort and security, so too can it in dreams. This is especially true if the dreamer is feeling stressed or anxious in their waking life. The dream may be a way for the dreamer to subconsciously seek out comfort and reassurance. Additionally, weight gain in dreams can also symbolize nurturing and abundance. Just as gaining weight can be a sign of good health and prosperity, so too can it in dreams. The dream may be a way for the dreamer to express their feelings of contentment and satisfaction with their life.

Transition and Change

Weight gain in dreams often symbolizes transition and change. It can represent a shift in your life circumstances, personal growth, or emotional state. Just like gaining weight physically alters your body, weight gain in dreams can signify a transformation or evolution within you.

This dream symbol can indicate a period of growth and development. It encourages you to embrace new opportunities and challenges that come your way. The weight you gain in the dream may represent the experiences, knowledge, or responsibilities you are taking on. This dream can also be a sign of increased self-confidence and a sense of empowerment.

Alternatively, weight gain in dreams can reflect emotional changes or internal struggles. It might indicate feeling overwhelmed, burdened, or restricted in some aspect of your life. The weight you gain in the dream can symbolize the emotional weight you are carrying. This dream can be a reminder to address and release any negative emotions or limiting beliefs that are holding you back.

Personal Growth and Transformation

Weight gain in dreams can symbolize personal growth and transformation. Just as physical weight gain represents an increase in mass and substance, so too can weight gain in a dream symbolize an increase in personal strength, wisdom, and experience. This growth can be internal, such as developing new skills or gaining a deeper understanding of oneself, or it can be external, such as achieving success in one's career or relationships.

Additionally, weight gain in a dream can represent a positive shift in one's life circumstances. It can indicate that the dreamer is moving into a period of abundance and prosperity, or that they are about to embark on a new chapter in their life that is full of potential and opportunity. The dream could also be a sign that the dreamer is becoming more grounded and connected to their body, which can lead to a greater sense of self-acceptance and well-being.

Subconscious Messages and Intuition

Weight gain in dreams can be a complex symbol, with many different possible interpretations. Often, it is a sign of emotional or psychological stress. The dreamer may be feeling overwhelmed or burdened by life's challenges, and the weight gain is a physical manifestation of this. It can also be a sign of stagnation or a feeling of being stuck in a rut. The dreamer may be longing for change or growth, but feels unable to move forward.

In some cases, weight gain in dreams can also be a positive symbol. It can represent abundance, fertility, or prosperity. The dreamer may be feeling confident and positive about their life, and the weight gain is a physical manifestation of this. It can also be a sign of personal growth or transformation. The dreamer may be evolving into a new and better version of themselves, and the weight gain is a symbol of this change.

Spiritual Insights: Unveiling the Weighty Symbolism of Weight Gain in Dreams

Transformation and Evolution

Weight gain in dreams can hold deep spiritual meanings related to transformation and evolution. It often signifies a period of profound personal growth and development.

Just as physical weight gain can bring about changes in a person's appearance and physical abilities, weight gain in dreams can signal significant internal shifts and the expansion of one's consciousness. It can indicate a growing awareness of hidden potential, talents, and untapped abilities.

Dreams of weight gain can also symbolize the accumulation of knowledge, wisdom, and experiences. As we learn and grow, we take in new information and perspectives, which can be seen as a kind of metaphorical weight gain. This can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself, the world, and one's place in it.

Furthermore, weight gain in dreams can sometimes represent emotional growth and healing. It can indicate a release of pent-up emotions, fears, and insecurities, making way for more positive and uplifting energies. The dream may be encouraging you to embrace your emotions fully and allow yourself to heal and transform.

Overall, dreams of weight gain can be seen as a positive sign of personal transformation and evolution. They may indicate that you are undergoing a period of significant growth, both internally and externally. Embrace this transformative journey and trust that you are moving in the right direction.

Increased Awareness and Wisdom

Weight gain in dreams is often associated with increased awareness and wisdom. It can symbolize a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around them. The added weight can represent the accumulation of knowledge, experiences, and insights that come with personal growth and development.

This dream symbol can also indicate a shift in perspective or a newfound sense of self-assurance. The dreamer may feel more grounded and connected to their inner strength and resilience. Additionally, weight gain in a dream could be a sign of emotional growth and maturity, as the dreamer learns to embrace their vulnerabilities and accept themselves for who they are.

Embracing New Opportunities

Dreaming of weight gain often symbolizes embracing new opportunities. This dream signals a period of growth and transformation in your waking life. Opportunities may present themselves in various forms, such as a new job or project, a fresh start in a different location, or a chance to learn a new skill. These opportunities may initially feel overwhelming or challenging, but they ultimately hold the potential for personal and spiritual growth. The dream encourages you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace these new experiences with an open heart. It reminds you that growth often comes through discomfort and that by taking calculated risks, you can unlock new levels of your potential.

Overcoming Obstacles and Challenges

Weight gain in dreams often represents the accumulation of obstacles and challenges in your waking life. This added weight can signify the emotional, mental, or spiritual burdens you're carrying. The dream encourages you to acknowledge these obstacles and challenges, rather than trying to ignore or suppress them.

Overcoming weight gain in the dream signifies your ability to overcome these obstacles and challenges. It's a positive sign of your strength, resilience, and determination. The dream encourages you to embrace the challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation. Shedding the excess weight in the dream represents letting go of the burdens and obstacles that have been holding you back.

The dream also highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy balance in your life. It reminds you to avoid taking on too much, both physically and emotionally. Prioritizing self-care and creating boundaries will help alleviate the feeling of being overwhelmed and burdened.

Overall, the dream symbol of weight gain serves as a reminder of the obstacles and challenges you may face in life. It encourages you to acknowledge and confront these challenges, rather than avoiding them. It also reminds you to maintain a healthy balance in your life and prioritize self-care. By doing so, you'll be better equipped to overcome any obstacles that come your way.

Nurturing and Self-Care

In some instances, weight gain in dreams can be a nurturing and self-care symbol. It can represent a desire for emotional and physical nourishment. When you are craving unconditional love and support, your subconscious may manifest this desire through dreams of weight gain.

The act of gaining weight in a dream can symbolize a need for self-compassion and acceptance. Alternatively, it could reflect a sense of inner growth and strength. As you gain weight in a dream, you may feel a sense of empowerment and resilience. This dream could be encouraging you to embrace your true self and celebrate your unique qualities.

Balance and Harmony

When you dream about weight gain, it could be a sign that you’re seeking balance and harmony in your life. You might be feeling overwhelmed or out of control, and your subconscious is telling you to find ways to bring more equilibrium into your day-to-day existence.

Weight gain in dreams can also symbolize a need for self-care and nurturing. Are you taking the time to nourish your body and soul? Are you surrounding yourself with positive people and experiences? If not, it’s time to start making some changes.

If you’re concerned about your weight gain, it’s important to talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions. Once you’ve ruled out any physical causes, you can start to explore the spiritual meaning of your dream and make changes to your life accordingly.

Integration of Mind, Body, and Spirit

Weight gain in dreams can symbolize the integration of mind, body, and spirit. It may indicate a time of growth and transformation, as you are becoming more aware of your needs and desires. This dream can also be a sign that you are becoming more grounded and connected to your physical body.

Additionally, weight gain in dreams can be a sign of emotional growth and maturity. You may be becoming more comfortable with yourself and accepting all aspects of your being. This dreams can also be a sign that you are becoming more aware of your inner strength and power.

Here are some specific interpretations of weight gain in dreams:

• Gaining weight on your stomach: This may symbolize your need for emotional nourishment and support.
• Gaining weight on your hips: This may symbolize your need for stability and security.
• Gaining weight on your thighs: This may symbolize your need for strength and power.
• Gaining weight on your arms: This may symbolize your need for balance and harmony.

Overall, weight gain in dreams can be a positive sign of growth and transformation. It may indicate that you are becoming more integrated and whole as a person.

Connecting with Higher Self

Weight gain is often a symbol of spiritual growth, transformation, and enlightenment. This is because in the spiritual world, weight gain signifies an increase in energy and power. As you progress on your spiritual journey, you begin to connect with your higher self, or the divine aspect of your being. This connection brings with it a sense of wholeness, completeness, and acceptance, which can be reflected in weight gain in your dreams. Additionally, weight gain can symbolize the acquisition of new knowledge and wisdom, as well as the development of your intuition and psychic abilities. As you integrate these new aspects of yourself, you may find that you become more confident.

Spiritual Awakening and Expansion

Weight gain in a dream signifies spiritual awakening and expansion. It symbolizes a period of transformation and profound growth, where you are expanding your consciousness and embracing new perspectives. This dream encourages you to let go of limitations and embrace the boundless potential within you. It suggests that you are ready to embody your authentic self and experience greater spiritual awareness.

Biblical Meaning of Weight Gain in a Dream

Weight Gain as a Sign of Spiritual Growth

Weight gain in dreams can be a positive symbol of spiritual growth and development. In the Bible, weight gain is often associated with prosperity, abundance, and divine favor. For example, in the book of Genesis, Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dream of seven fat cows as a sign of seven years of plenty and abundance. Similarly, in the book of Deuteronomy, Moses promises the Israelites that if they obey God's commandments, they will be blessed with "an abundance of things" and "fatness of the land."

Thus, dreaming of weight gain can be seen as a sign that you are growing spiritually and becoming more prosperous. It can also indicate that you are receiving divine favor and blessings. Additionally, weight gain in dreams can represent a sense of fulfillment and contentment. When you feel satisfied and happy with your life, you may find yourself gaining weight in your dreams. This is because weight gain is often associated with comfort and security.

Weight Gain as a Symbol of Abundance and Prosperity

Weight gain in a dream can be a symbol of abundance and prosperity, according to biblical interpretation. In the Bible, weight gain is often associated with good health, wealth, and fertility. For example, in Genesis, Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dream of the seven fat cows and seven thin cows predicted seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. Similarly, in Psalm 23, the psalmist writes, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." This verse suggests that those who are blessed by God will experience abundance and prosperity throughout their lives. In summary, weight gain in a dream can be seen as a positive symbol, representing God's blessings of abundance and prosperity.

Weight Gain as a Manifestation of Emotional or Physical Healing

Weight gain in dreams can symbolize emotional or physical healing. The added weight represents the burdens and difficulties you have faced and overcome. It can also indicate growth and progress in various aspects of your life. From a biblical perspective, weight gain can be seen as a sign of God's favor and blessing. In the Bible, being overweight was often associated with prosperity and abundance. It can also symbolize the accumulation of wisdom and knowledge throughout your life's journey. Weight gain in dreams can be a reminder to appreciate the positive changes and growth you have experienced and to trust in God's guidance and provision.

Weight Gain as a Reflection of Personal Transformation

Weight gain in dreams can hold significant biblical symbolism, representing a time of personal transformation and growth. In the Bible, references to weight gain are often associated with fertility, prosperity, and abundance.

For example, Sarah, the wife of Abraham, was long unable to bear children. When she finally conceived in her old age, the Bible describes her as being "greatly enlarged" (Genesis 21:1). This physical change reflected the profound spiritual transformation she experienced as she entered a new season of abundance and joy.

Similarly, in the book of Ruth, the protagonist Ruth works hard to provide for her mother-in-law Naomi. As a result of her faithfulness and diligence, God blesses Ruth with a wealthy husband, Boaz, and she is able to gain weight and live comfortably (Ruth 3:1-18).

In the New Testament, Jesus compares the Kingdom of God to a mustard seed, which is small but grows into a mighty tree (Matthew 13:31-32). This parable illustrates how personal growth and transformation can occur through seemingly small and insignificant beginnings.

Therefore, if you dream of gaining weight, it may indicate that you are entering a period of spiritual transformation and growth. This transformation may be related to your faith, relationships, career, or personal development. Embrace this time of change as an opportunity to reflect on your life and make positive choices that align with your values and aspirations. Trust that God is working in your life, and allow yourself to be transformed into the person He created you to be.

Weight Gain as an Indication of Spiritual Protection and Guidance

Weight gain in dreams is commonly associated with spiritual protection and guidance. The symbolism of weight gain here is not about physical appearance, but rather a representation of spiritual nourishment and growth.

From a biblical perspective, gaining weight in a dream may signify God's favor and blessings. In the Bible, weight gain is often associated with prosperity, abundance, and divine favor. For example, in Genesis 41, Pharaoh's butler and baker had dreams that were interpreted by Joseph. The butler's dream, in which he regained his position and served Pharaoh wine, was interpreted as a sign of God's favor and restoration. Similarly, the baker's dream, in which he was hanged, was interpreted as a sign of divine judgment.

In addition to prosperity and abundance, weight gain in dreams may also symbolize spiritual growth and maturity. In the parable of the prodigal son (Luke 15), the son who returned home was welcomed by his father with a feast and new clothes. The feast represented the spiritual nourishment and restoration that the son received upon his return. Similarly, in dreams, weight gain may symbolize the spiritual nourishment and growth that comes from developing a closer relationship with God.

Overall, weight gain in dreams can be interpreted as a positive sign, indicating spiritual protection, guidance, favor, and growth. It is a reminder of God's love and provision, and an encouragement to continue on the path of spiritual development.

Cultural and Historical Interpretations of Weight Gain Dreams

Throughout history and across cultures, dreams of weight gain have been interpreted in diverse and often contradictory ways.

• In ancient Egypt, weight gain was seen as a sign of prosperity and abundance, while in medieval Europe, it was associated with laziness and gluttony.

• In some Native American cultures, weight gain was believed to be a sign of spiritual growth, while in others, it was seen as a warning of impending illness.

• In modern Western culture, dreams of weight gain are often interpreted as a sign of anxiety, insecurity, or low self-esteem.

These interpretations reflect the cultural and historical contexts in which they arose, and they can provide insights into the dreamer's personal experiences and beliefs.

Possible Questions to Ponder:

• How might a person's cultural background influence their interpretation of a dream about weight gain?
• Could a dream about weight gain have different meanings for someone who is struggling with their weight than for someone who is not?
• How might a person's personal experiences with weight gain or weight loss affect their interpretation of a dream about weight gain?

12 Scenarios of Weight Gain Dreams and Their Symbolism

1. Dream of Gaining Weight Rapidly

Dreaming of gaining weight rapidly is often associated with a feeling of loss of control and a sense of being overwhelmed. It could indicate that you are feeling weighed down by responsibilities or that you are struggling to cope with a situation in your life. This dream could also be a reflection of your fear of losing control or of becoming overwhelmed.

On the other hand, this dream could also be a sign of growth and expansion. It could indicate that you are taking on new challenges or that you are expanding your horizons. This dream could also be a reflection of your desire for more success or abundance in your life.

Ultimately, the meaning of this dream will depend on your individual circumstances and experiences. It is important to pay attention to the other symbols in your dream and to the emotions that you were feeling in the dream. These clues can help you to better understand the meaning of this dream and how it relates to your waking life.

2. Dream of Being Overweight or Obese

Dreaming of being overweight or obese often reflects feelings of insecurity, low self-esteem, or a lack of control in your waking life. It can also be a sign of emotional or physical stress.

The dream may be trying to tell you that you are feeling overwhelmed by something in your life, and that you need to take some time for yourself to relax and de-stress. Alternatively, the dream could be a warning that you are not taking good care of your health, and that you need to make some changes to your lifestyle.

If you are struggling with weight gain in your waking life, the dream may be a manifestation of your anxiety or frustration about this issue. The dream may also be a sign that you are feeling ashamed or embarrassed about your weight, and that you are trying to hide it from others.

If you are not struggling with weight gain in your waking life, the dream may still be a sign that you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed. The dream could also be a warning that you are not taking good care of your health, and that you need to make some changes to your lifestyle.

Overall, the dream of being overweight or obese is a complex symbol that can have many different meanings. It is important to consider the context of the dream, as well as your own personal life experiences, in order to determine the specific meaning of the dream for you.

3. Dream of Being Unable to Lose Weight

Dreaming of being unable to lose weight despite your best efforts is a common scenario related to weight gain symbolism in dreams. This dream may reflect feelings of frustration, discouragement, and a perceived lack of control over your weight loss journey.

The dream might indicate a sense of being stuck in a cycle of trying and failing to lose weight, leading to feelings of hopelessness and self-criticism. Additionally, this dream may symbolize underlying emotional issues that contribute to unhealthy eating habits or difficulty maintaining a healthy weight. It might be a representation of feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges and resorting to emotional eating or unhealthy coping mechanisms. Alternatively, the dream could be a reminder to seek professional help to address emotional or psychological factors that may be hindering your weight loss efforts.

See all 12 weight gain dream scenarios

9 Demographics of People Who Might Dream of Weight Gain

1. People with Eating Disorders

• For individuals struggling with eating disorders, weight gain in dreams may symbolize their deepest fears and anxieties surrounding food, body image, and self-worth.

• These dreams often reflect the intense emotional turmoil and preoccupation with weight and appearance that characterize eating disorders.

• The dreamer may experience feelings of guilt, shame, and inadequacy, leading to a distorted perception of their body and an obsession with weight control.

• Weight gain in dreams can also symbolize a sense of loss of control and a desire to regain power over one's life.

• It may represent an attempt to cope with underlying emotional issues and unresolved conflicts that are contributing to the eating disorder.

• Understanding the symbolic meaning of weight gain dreams can provide valuable insights into the psychological struggles and emotional distress experienced by individuals with eating disorders.

2. People Who Are Overweight or Obese

• For individuals struggling with overweight or obesity, dreams of weight gain can be a reflection of their waking life concerns and anxieties about their weight and body image. These dreams may serve as a reminder of their ongoing battle with weight management and the challenges they face in achieving their weight loss goals.

• The emotional distress associated with weight-related issues can manifest in dreams, leading to feelings of frustration, shame, and inadequacy. Dreams of weight gain can be a way for the subconscious mind to process these emotions and provide a symbolic representation of the internal struggle the dreamer is experiencing.

• These dreams may also symbolize a fear of losing control overeating habits and regaining lost weight. They can be triggered by stressful life events, emotional turmoil, or unhealthy eating patterns. The dreamer may feel overwhelmed by their weight-related struggles and use dreams as a coping mechanism to express their fears and concerns.

• Dreams of weight gain can serve as a warning sign for people who are overweight or obese. These dreams can be interpreted as a reminder to take action and address their weight-related issues before they become more severe. They may prompt the dreamer to seek support from healthcare professionals, nutritionists, or weight loss programs to help them manage their weight and improve their overall health.

• Conversely, for individuals who have successfully lost weight and maintained a healthy lifestyle, dreams of weight gain may represent a fear of relapsing into old habits. These dreams can serve as a reminder to stay vigilant and maintain a commitment to healthy living. They may also reflect the dreamer's anxieties about maintaining their weight loss and the challenges they may encounter in the future.

3. People Who Are Trying to Lose Weight

• For those actively pursuing weight loss, dreams of weight gain can be particularly unsettling, triggering feelings of anxiety and discouragement. These dreams often reflect the emotional struggles and challenges individuals face in their weight loss journeys.

• The fear of gaining weight can manifest in dreams, symbolizing a loss of control over one's body and progress.

• These dreams may also represent a subconscious resistance to change, as losing weight often requires significant lifestyle adjustments and can be emotionally challenging.

• Additionally, dreams of weight gain could symbolize feelings of inadequacy or low self-esteem, particularly if the dreamer associates weight gain with negative body image.

• Dreams of weight gain can also be a manifestation of stress and anxiety related to the weight loss process. The dreamer may be worried about failing to achieve their goals or feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of dieting and exercise.

Discover more: who dreams of weight gain in 9 demographics

Digging Deeper: Self-Reflection on Weight Gain Dream Symbol

Did you know that dreams about weight gain often reflect your emotional state? For example, feeling overwhelmed or burdened in your waking life might manifest as weight gain in your dreams.

So, what's the takeaway here? Your dreams are a window into your subconscious mind.

To make the most of this self-discovery opportunity, consider keeping a dream journal. Jotting down your dreams upon waking can help you uncover patterns and recurring themes.

Pro tip: Try Dream Decoder, an AI-powered dream interpreter, to help you decode your weight gain dreams. Simply type in your dream and receive personalized interpretations. This can be a great way to gain deeper insight into your inner thoughts and feelings.

Remember, dreams are your personal roadmap to self-awareness. Embrace the journey and see where it takes you!