A dream catcher is a traditional Native American object with spiritual and cultural significance, particularly among the Ojibwa (Chippewa), Lakota, and other Indigenous peoples of North America. It is a handmade craft that resembles a web or net with a circular frame, traditionally made from willow wood. In the center of the web, a hole is left open.
The original purpose of a dream catcher was to act as a protective charm, believed to have the power to capture and filter dreams. It was traditionally hung above a person's sleeping area, like a cradle or bed, with the belief that it would keep bad dreams and negative energy away while allowing good dreams to pass through the center and slide down the feathers to the sleeper.
The basic elements of a dream catcher include:
Dream catchers have transcended their Indigenous origins and have become popular decorative items around the world. Many people find them aesthetically pleasing and choose to hang them as ornaments or decorations. In some cases, people use them in the hope of maintaining a sense of positivity and well-being. However, it's important to respect and acknowledge the cultural and spiritual significance of the dream catcher for Indigenous peoples, as it is more than just a decoration.