Swimming is an archetypal dream image. It suggests that spiritual energy is being used as we are moving towards a particular goal. It is said in dreams to symbolize the womb experience. To dream of being a good swimmer shows the ability to be able to handle emotional situations well, whereas being a poor swimmer in a dream could indicate the need to learn how to handle our emotions in a more positive way. Swimming in water will always be symbolic of the emotions, whereas swimming through the air connects with intellectual ability. Dreaming of swimming has much the same symbolism as immersion. To be swimming upstream in a dream would indicate we are going against our own nature. Swimming fish can have the same symbolism as sperm and, therefore, can indicate the desire for a child. Swimming in clear water indicates being cleansed, whereas dark water could symbolize the possibility of depression. Consult the entries for Drowning and Water for clarification.