Up Upwards Upper

Looking through dreams in which the words Up, Upwards, Upper or Upstairs are used, again and again one sees the same feeling as expressed in the example below – getting away from being ‘pulled down’ by difficult feelings, by depression, by everyday duties, by difficulties in relationships, and so on. It expresses the technique we use when worried, such as reading a book, being entertained, having a drink – anything to take our attention away from the difficult feelings. This does not remove the anxieties. It would be longer lasting if we faced them and transformed them.

Moving upwards of course also depicts positive change; shifting toward mental activity; gaining a wider view of things; and at times promotion. See: Ascending; Flow – Up and Down. 

‘When I was very small, probably even pre school, I often dreamt of flying. I was mostly dressed only in my short vest and usually floating upwards to escape adults who were clawing at my legs to pull me down.’ Miss G. C.

 Idioms: One up on; on the up and up; up a gum tree; up and down; ups and downs; up the pole; up the wall; up the spout; up to the hilt.