The namer might give the child a charm woven to look like a spider's web in order to protect the baby's dreams. In the Ojibway tribe, night visions, or dreams, were so important that children were not given a name until after a person designated as the 'namer' of that child had a dream as to what he/she should be called. Whether dreams are good or bad, they can inspire, confuse, or upset the dreamer. Today, dreams are still a powerful force in many people's lives, particularly because of the meanings that can be found in them. Throughout history, nearly every person and culture has placed importance on the meanings of their dreams. Beads, feathers and fetishes are not appropriate on a dreamcatcher as they interfere with the spiraling motion and can cause disturbing dreams. Should your dreams become too active, or if you feel you need a break from the workings of your dreamcatcher, simply lay it down on a flat surface to render it inactive until you are ready to hang it up again. Hang the dreamcatcher near the place where you sleep, on the wall, or perhaps from a lampshade or bedpost. The opening in the center determines the volume that you are asking to receive and parallels the changes that will occur in your life.
It is a very serious tool that is much more than a decorative ornament.
The Dreamcatcher helps us to remember and work with our dreams.
