Hedgehog

This probably refers to the sort of response we sometimes have of being easily hurt by situations or peoples remarks or actions. It could also mean we feel someone we know is very prickly or easily offended or irritated. or memories which create pain or irritation. Sometimes it illustates a vulnerable part of oneself which easily withdraws, but can react by hurting others.

But in fiction hedgehogs are often depicted as rather forgetful and rural characters who are slightly short-sighted and having a very personal view of the world.

Example: I stood on a mini hedgehog and got spikes stuck in the bottom of my foot. I pulled them out and put the hedgehog on the sofa. Then I sat on the sofa to recover from the spikes in my foot, and got spikes in my buttock. There was no real pain. I just wanted the spikes not to be a part of me. Can you interpret this?

There is a real clue in your phrase – I want the spikes not to be a part of me. Something is irritating you. It causes you  not to be as active or mobile in exterior activities, maybe even relationships. It also has the effect of you not being able to relax as much as you need – thus the spines in the bottom. I don’t know where these old memories or irritations arose from. But as you call this a mini hedgehog, it may have originated from when you were yourself a mini human being. To get a hold on those spines, ask yourself what minor irritations are causing you not to relax or get about, and pluck them out of your life.

Example: As Joe and I turned a corner I saw something on the path. At first I didn’t recognise it. Then I realised it was a hedgehog giving birth. Perhaps at first I thought the hedgehog was dead. I pointed it out to Joe and we stood watching it. I warned him not to get to close because he took a step toward the hedgehog and I could see it trying to move away in apprehension. I wondered what Joe made of this sight of something so fundamental. I felt it was something important for him to see. An important experience.

Useful Questions and Hints:

Am I feeling a need to withdraw from being in contact with others?

Is someone, or am I, being ‘prickly’ or easily irritated?

What defences do I use to protect myself?

See Animal – Mammal Brain – Techniques for Exploring your Dreams