What
is a Dreamcatcher?
Some consider
the dreamcatcher a symbol of unity among the various Indian Nations, and a general
symbol of identification with Native American or First Nations cultures.
Dreamcatchers
are an authentic American Indian tradition from the Ojibway (Chippewa) tribe.
A dreamcatcher is a based on a hoop (traditionally of willow), on which is woven
a net or web of sinew in a somewhat similar pattern to how the Ojibway tied webbing
for snowshoes. A "dream-catcher" was hung in the sleeping area as a
charm to protect children from nightmares. A legend holds that a dreamcatcher
filters a person's dreams, letting through the good ones and trapping bad dreams
in the web. Some believe that a dreamcatcher can help us remember our dreams.
Dreamcatchers
are often decorated with personal and sacred items such as feathers, totems and
beads. While these additions may make a dreamcatcher appealing and add to them
as a work of art, it is suggested by some that such ornaments are not appropriate
on dreamcatchers used for "catching dreams" as they could interfere
with the spiraling motion of the web and can cause disturbing dreams.
Generally,
a dreamcatcher is suspended near the place where you sleep, on the wall, or perhaps
from a lampshade or bedpost.
Paula
wondered: “Can I add things to my dreamcatcher?”"When
I took my large dreamcatcher home, I was immediately tempted to hook a beautiful
amber seahorse on it but I didn’t want to interfere with the energy or power
of Cynthia Whitehawk’s beautiful creation. So before I added anything I asked
her. "She replied: 'Oh, Seahorse or whatever
you choose to add to dream catchers are actually great. A dream catcher invites
those personal totems that bring one smiles, good thoughts, powerful energy .
. . we are just providing a start, giving a direction to go. Healing is a very
personal thing, as you well know.' ” |
What
is a Mandalla?
A Mandala is similar
in shape to a dreamcatcher but it usually has no web. Instead, the hoop is filled
with yarn, feathers, fur and usually has feathers hanging from the bottom. Mandala
is something you hang for prosperity and good fortune on a door or wall inside
your office, home, hogan, or tipi.
