Exploring the Depths: Understanding Weakness as a Dream Symbol

In the realm of dreams, symbols take on a profound significance, providing a glimpse into our inner landscape. Among these symbols, weakness stands out as a recurring motif, inviting us to explore our vulnerabilities and the ways in which we perceive our strength and limitations.

Weakness, in its essence, is a state of diminished power or capacity. It can manifest in physical, emotional, mental, or spiritual realms. When this symbol appears in our dreams, it beckons us to delve into our sense of self, our fears, and our aspirations.

Like a shadow that trails us, weakness can be both a source of trepidation and a catalyst for growth. Through our dreams, we are presented with an opportunity to confront our perceived weaknesses, to embrace them as integral aspects of the human experience, and to discover the hidden strengths that lie dormant within us.

Whether it's a physical ailment, an emotional struggle, or a mental block, weakness in dreams often reflects our innermost fears and insecurities. By acknowledging and examining these vulnerabilities, we can embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment.

Vulnerability and Insecurity

Dreaming of weakness often reflects a feeling of vulnerability and insecurity in your waking life. It could indicate that you're feeling overwhelmed by a situation or that you don't have the necessary resources to应对 challenges. The dream may also be a sign that you're feeling powerless or that you're being taken advantage of.

Weakness in dreams can manifest in various ways. You may dream of being physically weak, unable to move or defend yourself. Alternatively, you may dream of being emotionally weak, feeling overwhelmed by emotions or unable to cope with stress. The specific details of your dream will provide further insights into the meaning of the symbolism.

For instance, if you dream of being physically weak, it could suggest that you're feeling overwhelmed by a challenge or that you don't have the necessary resources to overcome an obstacle. On the other hand, if you dream of being emotionally weak, it could indicate that you're feeling vulnerable or that you're struggling to cope with stress.

It's important to consider the context of your dream when interpreting the symbolism of weakness. The dream may be symbolic of a specific situation or challenge in your waking life. Alternatively, it may be a more general reflection of your emotional state. Paying attention to the details of your dream and how it makes you feel can help you gain a deeper understanding of the message being conveyed.

Loss of Confidence and Self-Esteem

Dreaming of weakness can symbolize a loss of confidence and self-esteem. This may be due to a recent setback or failure, or it may be a sign that you are feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with the challenges in your life. Weakness dreams can also be a sign that you are feeling vulnerable and exposed, or that you are afraid of being taken advantage of.

If you are having dreams of weakness, it is important to try to identify the source of your feelings. Once you know what is causing you to feel weak, you can start to take steps to address it. This may involve working on your self-confidence, setting realistic goals, or learning to cope with stress and anxiety.

It is also important to remember that dreams are not always literal. A dream of weakness does not necessarily mean that you are physically weak. It may simply be a symbol of your emotional or mental state. If you are concerned about your dreams, it is always a good idea to talk to a therapist or counselor.

Overwhelming Stress and Anxiety

When you dream of feeling weak, it may symbolize that you are experiencing overwhelming stress and anxiety in your waking life. You may feel like you are carrying too much responsibility or that you are not able to cope with the demands of your life. This dream may be a way for your subconscious mind to process these feelings and to help you to find ways to cope with them.

In some cases, dreaming of weakness may also be a sign of physical illness or injury. If you are experiencing any unexplained physical symptoms, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Feeling Overwhelmed and Powerless

Dreaming of weakness can symbolize feeling overwhelmed and powerless in certain aspects of your life. You might be facing challenges that seem insurmountable and feel like you're struggling to cope. This dream could be a reflection of your current emotional state and the need to address and work through these feelings.

• Feeling Overwhelmed by Responsibilities: If you feel burdened by excessive responsibilities or commitments in waking life, you may dream of being weak and unable to handle them. This dream could be urging you to prioritize and delegate tasks to alleviate the overwhelming feeling.

• Powerlessness in a Situation: When you dream of weakness in the face of an adversary or obstacle, it could indicate feeling powerless in a real-life situation. This dream may be a manifestation of your fears and anxieties about not having control over certain outcomes or circumstances.

• Lack of Confidence and Self-Belief: Weakness in dreams can sometimes symbolize a lack of confidence and self-belief. You may be doubting your abilities or questioning your worthiness, leading to feelings of weakness and inadequacy. This dream could be encouraging you to embrace your strengths and work on building a stronger sense of self-esteem.

• Emotional and Physical Exhaustion: Experiencing weakness in dreams can also reflect emotional and physical exhaustion. If you're feeling drained and depleted in waking life, this dream could be a sign that you need to take a break, rest, and recharge your energy levels.

• Seeking Support and Guidance: Dreaming of weakness can sometimes indicate a longing for support and guidance from others. This dream may be encouraging you to reach out to friends, family, or professionals for assistance in overcoming challenges and feeling stronger.

Fear of Failure and Disappointment

Weakness is often associated with a fear of failure and disappointment. This fear can manifest itself in dreams in a variety of ways, such as feeling physically weak or powerless, being unable to defend oneself, or experiencing a sense of vulnerability.

These dreams can be a warning sign that you are feeling overwhelmed or stressed in your waking life. They may also indicate that you are feeling insecure about your abilities or that you are worried about letting others down.

If you have a dream about weakness, it is important to pay attention to the details of the dream and to consider what it might be trying to tell you. This information can help you to identify the source of your fear and to develop strategies for coping with it.

For example, if you dream that you are feeling physically weak, you might consider whether you are feeling overwhelmed by a task or situation in your waking life. If you dream that you are unable to defend yourself, you might consider whether you are feeling insecure about your abilities or whether you are worried about letting others down.

Once you have identified the source of your fear, you can start to develop strategies for coping with it. This might involve talking to a friend or therapist, practicing relaxation techniques, or setting realistic goals for yourself.

By facing your fear and working through it, you can overcome it and move on with your life.

Lack of Control and Direction

Dreaming of weakness often reflects a feeling of lack of control and direction in your waking life. You may feel overwhelmed by circumstances or unable to make decisions. This dream could also indicate a lack of self-confidence or a fear of failure.

For instance, dreaming of being physically weak or unable to move could symbolize a sense of powerlessness in a situation. Alternatively, dreaming of being mentally weak or indecisive could represent a lack of clarity or direction in your life. Pay attention to the specific context of your dream and the emotions you felt within it to gain a deeper understanding of the underlying message.

Feeling Trapped and Helpless

Feeling trapped and helpless is a common dream symbol of weakness. This dream can be interpreted as a sign that you are feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with the challenges in your life. You may feel like you are stuck in a situation that you cannot escape, and that you are powerless to change your circumstances. This dream may also be a sign that you are feeling emotionally vulnerable and unable to protect yourself from the negative forces in your life.

Physical or Emotional Exhaustion

A dream where you experience weakness can reflect physical or emotional exhaustion. It may indicate that you're feeling drained, overwhelmed, or unable to cope with the demands of your waking life.

Symbolism:

• Physical Exhaustion: Weakness in a dream could symbolize physical exhaustion, such as feeling tired, achy, or run down. It might represent the need for rest, relaxation, and self-care.

• Emotional Exhaustion: Weakness in a dream could also symbolize emotional exhaustion, such as feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or unable to handle your emotions. It might represent the need for emotional support, self-reflection, and healthy coping mechanisms.

Illness or Health Problems

If you dream about being weak and suffering from illnesses, this dream is a warning concerning a health issue. You should be careful about your health conditions and start some physical activities to stay healthy. This dream is a reminder for you to be more active, take care of your nutrition, and avoid things that might be harmful to your body. You need to get enough sleep and relaxation. A dream of weakness also symbolizes concerns, dislikes, and strong emotions like fear, anxiety, and depression.

Relationship Issues and Betrayal

In the vast expanse of dreams, where symbols and metaphors collide, weakness emerges as a haunting specter, reflecting the delicate balance of relationships and the sting of betrayal. When weakness manifests in your dreams, it serves as a mirror, reflecting the vulnerabilities that reside within the depths of your heart.

Relationship Issues:

1. Lack of Communication: Weakness in dreams often points to a breakdown in communication within a relationship. It suggests that unspoken words and unresolved conflicts are silently eroding the foundation of your connection. The dream prompts you to confront these issues head-on, to engage in honest and open conversations that can mend the torn fabric of your bond.

2. Power Imbalance: Weakness in dreams can symbolize a power imbalance within a relationship. You may feel dominated or controlled by your partner, leading to a sense of helplessness and vulnerability. The dream urges you to assert your boundaries, to communicate your needs and desires clearly, and to reclaim your sense of autonomy.

3. Emotional Dependency: When weakness appears in your dreams, it may indicate an unhealthy emotional dependency on your partner. You may feel like you cannot function without them, leading to codependency and a loss of self-identity. The dream encourages you to cultivate self-reliance, to find strength within yourself, and to embrace the beauty of being whole and complete on your own.

Betrayal:

1. Broken Trust: Weakness in dreams can be a manifestation of betrayal. You may have experienced a breach of trust from someone close to you, leaving you feeling hurt, vulnerable, and exposed. The dream serves as a reminder to process your emotions, to grieve the loss of trust, and to rebuild your sense of security.

2. Unfulfilled Expectations: Weakness in dreams can also symbolize unfulfilled expectations in a relationship. You may have placed unrealistic expectations on your partner, leading to disappointment and disillusionment. The dream prompts you to reevaluate your expectations, to communicate your needs more clearly, and to accept your partner for who they are, not who you want them to be.

Conclusion:

When weakness appears in your dreams, it is a call to explore the delicate tapestry of relationships and the intricacies of betrayal. It invites you to confront your vulnerabilities, to address unresolved conflicts, and to reclaim your sense of strength and autonomy. By embracing the lessons embedded within these dream symbols, you can navigate the complexities of human connection with greater clarity and resilience.

Financial Difficulties and Instability

Dreaming of feeling weak or powerless may symbolize financial difficulties and instability. The dream could be a reflection of your current financial situation or a warning about potential financial challenges ahead. It may urge you to be more mindful of your spending habits, prioritize your expenses, and explore ways to increase your income or secure your financial future. The dream could also indicate feelings of vulnerability and insecurity due to a lack of financial stability, prompting you to take proactive steps to improve your financial situation.

Past Trauma and Unresolved Issues

A dream where you feel weak or powerless can symbolize past trauma and unresolved issues that are weighing you down. This dream might be telling you that you need to confront these issues and start healing from them. It could also be a sign that you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed in your waking life and that you need to take some time for self-care and relaxation. Additionally, this dream could be a reminder that you're not alone and that there are people who love and support you, even when you feel weak.

Spiritual Attacks

Dreaming of weakness can be a sign of spiritual attacks. In the Bible, weakness is often associated with sin and temptation. When we are weak, we are more likely to give in to temptation and make choices that are not in our best interests. Spiritual attacks can come in many forms, such as thoughts of doubt and discouragement, feelings of anxiety and depression, or physical illness and disease. If you are experiencing weakness in your dream, it is important to pray and seek God's help in overcoming the spiritual attacks that you are facing. You can also seek support from Christian friends and family members, who can help you to stand strong against the enemy.

Demonic Oppression

Weakness in dreams can often symbolize demonic oppression. This is because weakness can be a sign that something is draining your strength and energy. Demonic oppression is a spiritual attack that can cause a person to feel weak, both physically and spiritually. It can also lead to feelings of hopelessness, despair, and depression. If you are experiencing weakness in your dreams, it is important to seek spiritual guidance and protection. This may involve praying for deliverance from demonic oppression, or seeking the help of a pastor, priest, or other spiritual leader.

Unmet Desires

Weakness in a dream can be a representation of unmet desires or unfulfilled goals. When you dream of feeling weak, it could be a sign that there are aspects of your life where you feel inadequate or powerless. This dream symbol often appears when individuals are struggling with a lack of motivation, confidence, or control over their circumstances.

Biblically, unmet desires can be associated with unfulfilled promises or expectations. In the Book of Psalms, it is written, "My soul thirsts for you like a parched land" (Psalm 63:1). This verse reflects the longing for something that is lacking or unattainable, which can lead to feelings of weakness and inadequacy.

The dream symbol of weakness can be an indication to seek inner strength and resilience. It might prompt individuals to reflect on their fears and insecurities and work towards overcoming them. Additionally, it can encourage them to set realistic goals and take action to achieve them, fostering a sense of accomplishment and personal growth.

Surrender to God

Weakness in a dream can symbolize surrender to God. It is a sign that you are letting go of control and allowing God to take over your life. This can be a difficult thing to do, but it is essential for spiritual growth. When you surrender to God, you are opening yourself up to His love and guidance. You are allowing Him to work in your life and to transform you into the person He created you to be.

The Bible tells us that we should humble ourselves before God and allow Him to lift us up (James 4:10). When we do this, we are admitting that we are weak and that we need His help. This is not a sign of defeat, but a sign of strength. It is the first step towards a deeper relationship with God.

If you are struggling with weakness in your life, pray to God for strength. Ask Him to help you let go of control and to surrender to His will. He will not let you down. He will give you the strength you need to overcome anything that comes your way.

Trusting God

Weakness in dreams, from a biblical perspective, represents a deep reliance on God and a complete surrender to His will. It's a symbol of trusting in God's strength and power to carry you through life's challenges. The Bible encourages believers to lean on God's strength, especially during times of weakness. Passages like 2 Corinthians 12:10, which states, "Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong," serve as a testament to the power of acknowledging one's weakness and seeking God's strength. Dreams involving weakness can be a reminder to surrender control, trust in God's plan, and allow His strength to manifest in one's life.

Submitting to Authority

In the Bible, submitting to authority is a recurring theme that emphasizes the importance of respecting and obeying those in positions of leadership. When weakness is portrayed as a dream symbol, it can be interpreted as a spiritual call to surrender control and trust in the authority of God or other higher powers.

The dream may be urging the dreamer to let go of their pride, stubbornness, or self-sufficiency and embrace humility. It could also signify a need to seek guidance, wisdom, and protection from those who hold positions of authority in their lives, such as parents, teachers, mentors, or religious leaders.

This dream symbol may also be a reminder of the importance of submitting to God's will and trusting in His sovereignty over all things. It could be a call to surrender personal desires, ambitions, and plans to align with God's purposes and to seek His guidance and direction in every aspect of life.

Overall, the dream symbol of weakness in the biblical context encourages individuals to humble themselves, seek wisdom from those in authority, and trust in the providence and sovereignty of God. By submitting to authority, the dreamer can find strength, guidance, and protection in their spiritual journey.

Rejecting Temptation

Weakness in dreams, especially in the context of rejecting temptation, often carries spiritual and moral implications. According to biblical interpretations, such dreams may signify a struggle against sinful desires and a longing for spiritual strength. The individual might be experiencing inner turmoil as they grapple with the allure of temptation and the consequences of yielding to it.

The dream serves as a reminder to seek strength and guidance from God. It encourages the dreamer to rely on divine power to overcome weaknesses and make righteous choices. The biblical narrative of Jesus's temptation in the wilderness exemplifies this struggle, highlighting the importance of rejecting worldly desires and choosing the path of obedience to God.

Weakness in dreams can also symbolize a lack of trust in God's provision and protection. The dreamer might feel vulnerable and insecure, doubting their ability to navigate life's challenges without succumbing to temptation. The dream invites the individual to surrender their weaknesses to God and trust in His grace and faithfulness.

Interpreting these dreams requires a personal reflection on one's spiritual journey and relationship with God. Seeking guidance from religious texts, spiritual leaders, or personal prayer can help uncover the deeper meanings and insights embedded in these dreams.

Bearing Burdens

The biblical meaning of weakness as a dream symbol centers around the concept of bearing burdens. In the Bible, believers are often exhorted to bear one another's burdens, showing love, compassion, and support to those who are struggling (Galatians 6:2).

To dream of feeling weak or carrying a heavy burden can be a reminder to seek support and encouragement from others. It may also signify the need to let go of things that are weighing you down, whether physical, emotional, or spiritual. Trusting in God's strength and relying on His grace can help you overcome feelings of weakness and carry on with renewed vigor.

Like the apostle Paul, who gloried in his weakness because it allowed him to experience the power of Christ (2 Corinthians 12:9-10), weakness in dreams can point to the need for surrender and dependence on God. It can be an invitation to release control and allow God to work through your life, bringing about His purposes.

Waiting on the Lord

Dreaming of feeling weak or vulnerable often symbolizes a sense of powerlessness and reliance on God's strength. This dream could indicate a need for surrender and trust in divine guidance. The biblical interpretation of waiting on the Lord emphasizes patience, faith, and dependence on God's timing. This dream may encourage you to let go of control and allow God to lead the way. It could also be a reminder to seek strength and comfort from the Lord during challenging times. Trusting in God's sovereignty and waiting for His perfect timing can lead to renewed strength and spiritual growth.

Perseverance

If you dream of weakness, it means that you are feeling overwhelmed and powerless in your waking life. You may be facing challenges that seem too big to overcome, or you may feel like you are not in control of your own life. This dream is a reminder that you are stronger than you think and that you have the ability to overcome any obstacle.

The biblical meaning of perseverance is that God is always with you, even when you feel weak. He will give you the strength and courage to face any challenge, and He will never let you down.

When you dream of weakness, it is a sign that you need to turn to God for help. He is the only one who can truly give you the strength and courage you need to overcome your challenges. If you are feeling weak, pray to God and ask Him for help. He will always be there for you.

Weakness in Dream Symbolism: A Cultural and Historical Lens

Across cultures and time, weakness has found its place in our dreams, often carrying profound significance. Throughout history, dreams of weakness have been viewed as harbingers of challenges or personal struggles. In various belief systems, weakness in dreams symbolized internal conflicts, vulnerability, and the need for self-reflection.

In ancient Greece, dreams of weakness were associated with the gods' displeasure or impending failures. In many Native American cultures, weakness in dreams signified a loss of spiritual power or a need for introspection and growth. In some Asian cultures, weakness in dreams was seen as a reminder of the need for balance and harmony in life.

In literature, weakness in dreams often foreshadows character development or inner transformations. For example, in Shakespeare's Hamlet, Hamlet's dream of weakness represents his struggle with indecision and moral dilemmas. Likewise, in Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment, Raskolnikov's dreams of weakness symbolize his inner turmoil and guilt.

These cultural and historical perspectives offer glimpses into the multifaceted nature of dream symbolism, reminding us that weakness in dreams can be a catalyst for transformation, a call for inner strength, and an opportunity for personal growth.

1. Dream About Feeling Weakness

If you dream about feeling weakness, it suggests that you are feeling overwhelmed by a situation or challenge in your life. You may be feeling like you don't have the strength or resources to cope with what is happening. This dream may also be a sign of insecurity or low self-esteem. You may feel like you are not good enough or that you are not capable of handling the tasks that are in front of you. Alternatively, this dream may be a warning that you are about to face a difficult situation or challenge that will test your strength and resilience.

2. Dream About Seeing Others' Weakness

Dreaming about seeing others' weakness signifies your own feelings of vulnerability and inadequacy. You may be feeling insecure about your abilities or your place in the world. Seeing others' weaknesses can also be a reminder that everyone has flaws, and that it's okay to be imperfect.

This dream could also be a sign that you are being too critical of yourself or others. You may need to learn to be more accepting of your own and others' shortcomings.

Alternatively, this dream may be a warning that you are being taken advantage of by someone. You may need to be more assertive and stand up for yourself.

3. Dream About Being Weak Physically

• This dream can indicate a feeling of vulnerability, insecurity, or powerlessness in your waking life.

Dive deeper into 19 weakness dream scenarios

1. People Who Feel Overwhelmed or Stressed

In the realm of dreams, weakness can manifest itself in diverse forms, each carrying its own unique message for the dreamer. For individuals who feel overwhelmed or stressed, dreams of weakness often serve as a mirror, reflecting their current emotional and psychological state.

1. Feeling Powerless and Overwhelmed:

Dreams of weakness may symbolize feelings of powerlessness and being overwhelmed by life's challenges. The dreamer might find themselves unable to overcome obstacles or feel like they are drowning in responsibilities. Such dreams often urge the dreamer to acknowledge and address the sources of stress and seek support from others.

2. Inability to Meet Expectations:

For those who constantly strive to meet expectations, dreams of weakness can symbolize the fear of falling short. The dreamer might worry about disappointing others or not living up to their own high standards. These dreams encourage self-reflection and remind the dreamer to prioritize self-care and realistic goal setting.

3. Loss of Control:

Dreams of weakness can also represent a sense of loss of control over one's life. The dreamer might feel like they are being swept away by events or that they have no agency in shaping their own destiny. Such dreams urge the dreamer to take ownership of their choices and actions, empowering them to navigate life's challenges more effectively.

4. Physical or Emotional Exhaustion:

Weakness in dreams can sometimes be a manifestation of physical or emotional exhaustion. The dreamer might feel drained, depleted, and unable to cope with daily stressors. These dreams serve as a reminder to prioritize rest, self-care, and seeking support from loved ones.

5. Need for Self-Compassion:

Dreams of weakness can also be a call for self-compassion and acceptance. The dreamer might be overly critical of themselves, setting unrealistic expectations and beating themselves up for perceived failures. These dreams encourage the dreamer to embrace their imperfections, practice self-acceptance, and treat themselves with kindness.

Understanding the symbolism behind dreams of weakness can provide valuable insights into the dreamer's emotional state and subconscious concerns. By exploring these dreams, individuals can gain a deeper understanding of themselves and take steps towards overcoming the challenges that weigh them down.

2. People Who Are Going Through a Difficult Time

• For individuals navigating challenging circumstances, dreams of weakness serve as a mirror reflecting their current state of being.

• The dream world often personifies weakness as a frail figure, a broken object, or a daunting obstacle, evoking feelings of vulnerability and helplessness.

• These dreams can be unsettling, leaving a lingering sense of inadequacy and exhaustion upon waking.

• However, it's important to recognize that dreams of weakness are not meant to discourage but rather to acknowledge the struggles and provide an opportunity for growth and resilience.

• Dreams can serve as a safe space to confront and process the emotions associated with challenging times, allowing individuals to gain a deeper understanding of their inner strength and resilience.

• By embracing the message of weakness in dreams, individuals can find the courage to seek support, explore new coping mechanisms, and ultimately overcome the obstacles that stand in their way.

3. People with Low Self-Esteem

• People with low self-esteem often dream of feeling weak or powerless. They may feel like they are not in control of their life or that they are at the mercy of others. These dreams can be a reflection of their waking life experiences, in which they may feel like they are constantly being put down or criticized.

• Dreams of weakness can also be a sign that the dreamer is feeling overwhelmed or stressed. They may feel like they are taking on too much responsibility or that they are not coping well with the demands of their life. These dreams can be a warning sign that the dreamer needs to take a step back and re-evaluate their priorities.

• Additionally, dreams of weakness can be a manifestation of the dreamer's fears or insecurities. They may be afraid of failure or rejection, or they may worry that they are not good enough. These dreams can be a way for the dreamer to process these fears and to come to terms with them.

• For people with low self-esteem, dreams of weakness can be particularly distressing. They may reinforce the dreamer's negative beliefs about themselves and make them feel even worse about themselves. However, it is important to remember that dreams are not always literal. Dreams of weakness can also be a sign that the dreamer is on the path to growth and change. By facing their weaknesses in their dreams, the dreamer can begin to overcome them in their waking life.

Discover more: who dreams of weakness in 8 demographics

Self-Reflection on Dream Symbol: Weakness

Have you ever had a dream where you felt weak and vulnerable? If so, you're not alone. Weakness is a common dream symbol that can have a variety of meanings, depending on the context of the dream.

To understand what your dream is trying to tell you, it's helpful to reflect on the specific details of the dream. What made you feel weak? Were you physically weak, or was it a feeling of emotional weakness? Where you in a situation where you felt powerless or overwhelmed?

Once you've identified the source of your weakness in the dream, you can start to explore what it might mean. Weakness can sometimes be a sign that you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed in your waking life. It can also be a sign that you're feeling insecure or vulnerable about something.

Dreams can also be a way for us to process difficult emotions. If you're struggling with feelings of weakness or vulnerability, your dream may be trying to help you come to terms with these feelings.

Keeping a dream journal can be a helpful way to track your dreams and identify patterns in your dream symbolism. When you have a dream that you find particularly meaningful, write it down in your journal and then take some time to reflect on what it might mean.

If you're looking for a tool to help you interpret your dreams, consider using Dream Decoder, an ai dream interpreter. Dream Decoder can help you identify the symbols in your dreams and provide insights into their meaning.

By exploring the dream symbol of weakness, you can gain a deeper understanding of yourself and your waking life.