Night Symbols
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Praying mantis

Folded front legs, a long green body and a head that turns to look straight at you: the praying mantis is an insect people stop to watch. It can stay perfectly still for a long time, then strike in a flash, so dreams of it often turn to patience and timing. One appearing near you can be a sign to slow down, watch carefully and act only when the moment is right. Its prayer-like pose also gives it a thoughtful, almost meditative air.

Also called: Mantis, Praying mantises, Mantid

Dream variations

A mantis on your hand

Something unusual has come close and feels safe enough to stay. Keep still and let it show you what it's about.

A mantis hidden among leaves

Something useful is hiding in plain sight, blending into the everyday. Look twice at something you've been walking past.

A mantis turning its head toward you

You feel seen by someone who usually keeps quiet. Their attention is worth noticing; they may have useful advice.

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Dream interpretations are for entertainment.