Mourning Dove: Spiritual Meaning, Dream Meaning, Symbolism & More

Last Updated on November 22, 2023

Have you ever found yourself captivated by the gentle cooing of a mourning dove or mesmerized by its graceful flight across the sky? 

In the realm of the avian world, few creatures evoke a sense of peace, hope, and spiritual connection as profoundly as the mourning dove.

Are you interested in learning more about the issues mourning doves can assist in resolving, the behaviors they encourage, and the answers they provide to people who seek them out? 

Join us as we delve into the complex world of the mourning dove and reveal the secret meanings it contains in both the physical world and the dream world. 

The symbolism of this bird can offer peace, healing, and a deeper knowledge to your life. Be ready to be touched by it.

What do a mourning dove’s spirit and totem animal meanings and symbolism mean?

The mourning dove holds deep symbolism and meaning as both a spirit and totem animal in various cultures and belief systems. 

Since it frequently embodies serenity, tranquility, and harmony as a spirit animal, persons who resonate with it may need to find inner peace and find ways to deal with issues in their lives. 

Additionally, the mourning dove symbolizes love, devotion, and loyalty in relationships, making it a messenger of heartfelt connections. 

In Native American traditions, it carries messages of hope and positive change, offering guidance during challenging times.

Furthermore, as a spirit animal, it encourages individuals to find beauty in the simplicity of life and appreciate everyday moments.

As a totem animal, the mourning dove emphasizes the importance of family and community bonds. Those with the mourning dove as their totem often find strength and support within their social circles. 

This totem emphasizes the importance of communication and expression and exhorts people to do it tactfully and clearly. 

Adaptability and resilience are also associated with the mourning dove, highlighting one’s ability to navigate changing circumstances and overcome challenges. 

Additionally, the totem signifies a strong desire for peace and harmony in life and encourages mediation and conflict resolution.

Lastly, the mourning dove’s presence as a totem may signify trust in one’s intuition and inner guidance. 

In general, the symbolism of the mourning dove as a spirit and totem animal incorporates ideas of harmony, affection, adaptability, and intuition, providing support and understanding to those who connect with it.

The Mourning Dove’s Deep Symbolism and Fascinating Meanings

The Mourning Dove, often regarded as a symbol of peace and tranquillity, holds deep symbolism and meaning in various cultures and traditions. 

In Native American folklore, this gentle bird is associated with messages from the spirit world and is seen as a precursor of positive change and renewal. 

Its mournful cooing is thought to soothe troubled minds and bring a sense of calm. In Christian symbolism, the Mourning Dove is often connected to the Holy Spirit, representing purity and divine guidance. 

Its monogamous character also reflects universal concepts of love and loyalty. In general, the symbolism of the mourning dove transcends national boundaries and communicates messages of hope, peace, and spiritual connectedness to those who see its elegant presence.   

Understanding the Spiritual Meaning of the Animal Guide, the Mourning Dove

Spiritual Role	Meaning
Spirit Animal	Encouraging honesty, self-improvement, freedom
Totem Animal	Letting go of the past, embracing love
Power Animal	Providing strength, communication, parenthood

Mourning Dove Symbolism

• Represents aspects of yourself that you may be avoiding or ignoring.
• Encourages honesty and facing insecurities for self-improvement.
• Symbolizes the need to bring insecurities to light to find happiness.

 Freedom and Flight

• Like other birds, mourning doves symbolize freedom and the ability to escape worries.
• Signifies the ability to remove oneself from restrictive situations and obligations.

Community and Inspiration

• Suggests the importance of finding a community and working on bettering the world.
• Encourages inspiring others and helping those on a path of self-destruction while embracing all aspects of yourself.

The Mourning Dove’s Deeper Meaning as a Totem Animal

Totem Animal Significance

• Totem animals offer guidance and strength in life.
• The mourning dove totem signifies the need to let go of the negative past to find happiness.
• Encourages seeking positive experiences for happiness, even in unexpected places.

Love and Life Symbolism

• Represents love, as mourning doves mate for life.
• Embodies the concept of life and death in some cultures.
• Demonstrates the power of love and how it can make us stronger.

Rebirth and New Beginnings

• Symbolizes rebirth, highlighting the opportunity to start anew.
• Encourages openness to the world’s possibilities and finding happiness even in endings.

RELATED: Pigeon: Spiritual Meaning, Dream Meaning, Symbolism & More

Examining the Power Animal Mourning Dove’s Empowering Significance

A power animal is one whose strength and energy you draw upon to help you through your life. You will gain the power of your chosen animal, which can allow you to be able to get through a tough situation or even overcome your shortcomings

The mourning dove is a powerful animal to call upon when you need its strength in your life. When you require strength, love, and peace in your life, the mourning dove will be at your side.

They will help you communicate even when angry. They soothe you and allow you to take a step back to make better decisions when it comes to speaking your mind.

The mourning dove often links with parenthood, family, and the home. These animals are symbolic of love, fertility, and lasting relationships.

So, when you are entering parenthood or need help in your new life, the mourning dove will be there to lend you a hand and imbue you with the patience and love to get through life.

Mourning Doves’ Mysterious Presence in Mythology and Folklore

Culture/Tradition	Symbolism
Native American	Positive change, renewal
Christianity	Holy Spirit, purity
Greek Mythology	Aphrodite, love
Japanese Culture	Spring, new beginnings
Feng Shui	Peace, harmony
Celtic Mythology	A link to another world
Aztec Culture	Goddess Xochiquetzal
Native American	Messenger between realms
Hindu Mythology	Messengers of Kamadeva
Modern Literature	Themes of hope, reconciliation

The Mourning Dove holds significance in mythology and folklore across various cultures, often symbolizing themes of love, peace, and renewal. 

In Greek mythology, the dove was associated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love, and was considered a sacred bird representing affection and desire.

In Hindu mythology, doves are believed to be the messengers of the god of love, Kamadeva, reinforcing their connection to romantic love. 

The mourning dove is seen in Native American culture as a representation of the spirit’s interaction with the physical world.

Its mournful cooing is thought to carry messages from the spirit realm, often conveying blessings or guidance to those who listen. 

Many indigenous cultures also associate the dove with peace and harmony, and its presence is seen as an omen of positive change.

In Christian tradition, the dove is a powerful symbol of the Holy Spirit, often depicted descending upon Jesus during his baptism. This association represents purity, divine guidance, and the presence of God. 

Across these various mythologies and folklores, the Mourning Dove endures as a moving representation of love, spirituality, and the capacity for rebirth and constructive change in both the natural and spiritual worlds.

The Mourning Dove’s Powerful Symbolism in Literature and Art

The Mourning Dove has played a meaningful role in art and literature, carrying different emotions and ideas. 

In art, it often appears as a graceful and gentle bird, symbolizing peace, love, and serenity. Artists use it to create a sense of calm and harmony in their works.

In literature, the Mourning Dove has a versatile character. Its soft cooing can evoke sadness or melancholy, but its association with peace and love can also convey themes of hope, renewal, and reconciliation. 

Authors and poets often use the dove as a symbol to explore complex human emotions and relationships.

You might remember the famous poem “The Raven” by Edgar Allan Poe, where the raven’s haunting “Nevermore” contrasts with the soothing cooing of the dove, highlighting the dove’s role as a symbol of peace and tranquillity.

In modern literature, the Mourning Dove still holds significance, adding depth and meaning to stories. 

Its representation in literature and art demonstrates that it is a timeless sign that embodies both sadness and hope, making it a flexible symbol in artistic expression.

Native American Tradition: A Revered Symbol and Spiritual Influence of the Mourning Dove

In Native American tradition, the Mourning Dove holds a sacred place, symbolizing peace, spirituality, and renewal. 

Many tribes consider it a messenger between the earthly realm and the spirit world, with its mournful cooing bringing messages of guidance and blessings. 

The dove is a significant symbol in Native American ceremonies and a reminder of the enduring principles of love, faithfulness, and harmony throughout their traditions because its presence denotes a sense of tranquility, healing, and positive change.

Celtic Mythology’s Mourning Dove: A Tale of Symbolism and Legend

In Celtic mythology, the Mourning Dove, while not as prominent as in some other cultures, is still associated with certain symbolic meanings. 

Celtic beliefs often revolve around nature and the interconnectedness of the physical and spiritual realms.

The Mourning Dove’s gentle and mournful cooing may have been interpreted as a link between the earthly and the otherworldly.

The Celts held a deep reverence for the natural world and its creatures, including birds. Doves, in general, were seen as messengers and symbols of peace and love. 

Even while there may not be as many specific tales or myths about the Mourning Dove in Celtic mythology, the bird’s presence in the region undoubtedly led to its symbolic association with concepts of love, peace, and perhaps even spiritual contact. 

The Mourning Dove in Japanese Culture and Tradition: A Symbolic Presence

In Japan, the Mourning Dove, also known as the “Zenmai-bato” or “Collared Dove,” is a bird that’s quite dear to the culture.

People there see it as a sign that spring has arrived when they hear its gentle cooing, and this brings a feeling of fresh starts and new beginnings. 

In Japanese culture, the dove also represents serenity, love, and faithfulness. It’s a common motif in their writing, poetry, and art, signifying innocence and the enduring beauty of nature. 

This bird is a part of the Japanese way of life, connecting them to the changing seasons and the tranquillity of the natural world.

The Mourning Dove’s Feng Shui Meaning: Harmonizing Your Space

In Feng Shui, the Mourning Dove is associated with positive energy and is believed to bring harmony and peace to a space.

Its gentle and soothing cooing is seen as a source of calming energy, making it a symbol of tranquillity and serenity. 

Placing images or representations of Mourning Doves in your home or garden is thought to enhance the flow of positive energy and promote a harmonious atmosphere. 

Additionally, because of its monogamy and association with faithful partnerships, the Mourning Dove is a well-liked choice for couples hoping to strengthen their relationship and communication. 

Overall, the Mourning Dove holds a special place in Feng Shui practices as a symbol of peace, love, and balance.

Understanding Mourning Dove Symbolism in Dreams: What Do They Mean?

Dream Scenario	Interpretation
Flock of Mourning Doves	Good news, peace, positive change
Couple of Mourning Doves	Loveable connection and fulfillment
Mourning Dove on a Table	Ill omen, sickness, potential loss
Mourning Dove on a Church	Religious support, family unity
A Mourning Dove Drinking	Troubles changing for the better
Injured Mourning Dove	Upcoming bad luck, challenges in relationships
Hunted Mourning Dove	Dealing with inner demons and negative outcomes
Ring on a Mourning Dove’s Foot	Surprising good news

The mourning dive shares much of its symbolism and spiritual meaning with the white dove. The main difference is that the mourning dove can more typically link to death than its cousin, the white dove.

So, seeing either of these doves in your dreams could mean that your message will be extremely similar.

Flock of Mourning Doves

• Good sign; may receive good news from afar.
• Flying doves in the air indicate peace and positive life changes.

couple of Mourning Doves Cooing

• Suggests a loving and fulfilling relationship.
• Current relationship may flourish, or a new, deserving love may come your way.

Mother Mourning Dove with Chicks

• Signifies potential for having children soon.
• Also indicates the need to invest more in family relationships.

Taking a Mourning Doves Chicks

• Suggests impending visitors.
• Feeding the chicks indicates the need for a meaningful, positive action that benefits you and others.

RELATED: Parrot: Spiritual Meaning, Dream Meaning, Symbolism & More

Mourning Dove Sat on Your Shoulder

• Warning to be more observant of those around you.
• Indicates the possibility of illness in you or a family member.

Mourning Dove Sat on a Table

• Potential omen of sickness or impending loss.
• Pecking at crumbs might foretell sad news.

Mourning Dove on a Church

• Viewed religiously as a symbol of divine support.
• Non-religious interpretation suggests family support in times of need.

Mourning Dove Drinking

• Sign of impending positive changes amid trouble.
• Drowning dove indicates potential failure in a project or business venture.

Mourning Dove Flies into your Window

• Indicates the likelihood of having free time.
• Suggests the arrival of a prospective partner.

Injured Mourning Dove

• Sign of upcoming bad luck, particularly in relationships.
• May indicate difficulties in identifying problems or separating from toxic individuals.

Hunted Mourning Dove

• Negative sign; implies the need to confront inner demons and darkness.
• Failure to address these issues may lead to negativity in life.

Ring on a Mourning Dove’s Foot

• A ring placed on a dove’s leg signifies forthcoming good news and positive developments in your life.

What Does a Mourning Dove Mean? Messages from the Gentle Spirit

Encounter	Meaning
Seeing a Mourning Dove	Seek inner calm, cherish relationships
Hearing a Mourning Dove	Pause for reflection, connect with nature
Finding a Dove Feather	Peace, tranquillity, connection to the natural world

Seeing a Mourning Dove can carry various meanings, often rooted in peace and tranquillity. Many interpret the sight of these gentle birds as a reminder to seek inner calm and reduce conflict in their lives. 

They are also viewed as representations of devotion and affection, serving as reminders to value and cultivate connections.

A Mourning Dove’s presence can also suggest progress or the beginning of a new stage, which can promote personal development and regeneration. 

Regardless of the specific interpretation, spotting a Mourning Dove often brings a sense of serenity and hope to those who encounter it. 

The Mourning Dove’s Melodic Message to Man: The Meaning of Hearing One

Hearing the mournful coo of a Mourning Dove often carries a sense of serenity and symbolism. It’s like nature’s whisper, reminding us to find peace amidst life’s hustle and bustle. 

The gentle, soothing sound may prompt thoughts of love, devotion, and the importance of nurturing relationships. For some, it’s a comforting presence during challenging times, offering solace and healing. 

The significance of hearing a Mourning Dove’s coo can ultimately vary greatly from person to person, but it typically inspires a moment of introspection and a connection to the peaceful moves of nature.

Discovering a Mourning Dove Feather: Unveiling the Symbolic Treasure

Discovering a Mourning Dove feather is often regarded as a serendipitous and meaningful encounter with nature.

It can symbolize moments of peace and tranquillity in one’s life, serving as a reminder to seek harmony and calm. 

Some can see it as a spiritual message that encourages reflection and connection with one’s inner self. The feather’s delicate beauty can make people more appreciative of nature and the rejuvenation it symbolizes. 

Finding a Mourning Dove feather is ultimately viewed as a good and thought-provoking event that encourages us to consider life’s bigger questions and our relationship to the environment around us.

Examining the Numerous Meanings of the Mourning Dove

Mourning Dove symbolism encompasses a rich tapestry of meanings. Primarily, it represents peace and tranquillity, with its gentle demeanour and soothing cooing embodying serenity. 

It also represents fidelity and love, which are frequently regarded as proof of long-lasting relationships. Mourning Doves are revered as messengers between the spiritual and material worlds who bring consolation and advice. 

They signify renewal and hope, tied to new beginnings and positive change. Their presence also reminds us of our connection to nature and the environment, underlining the importance of harmony with the natural world. 

Lastly, the Mourning Dove carries a sense of healing and solace, particularly during times of grief. This multifaceted symbolism reflects the bird’s enduring significance in diverse cultures and beliefs.

Amazing Mourning Dove Quotes: Symbolism and Wisdom in Words

Mourning Dove sayings, though less common than those about more prominent birds, reflect their gentle nature.

Phrases like “as gentle as a Mourning Dove” describe a calm demeanour, and “cooing like a Mourning Dove” characterizes soft and affectionate speech. 

Folklore even links Mourning Doves to weather predictions, with their evening presence indicating good weather the next day. These sayings highlight the bird’s reputation for tranquillity and gentleness.

In Greek mythology, its gentle and loving nature could remind people of Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

In Christianity, the Holy Spirit is sometimes represented as a dove, symbolizing purity and divine guidance, which aligns with the Mourning Dove’s message of peace and calm. 

Mourning Dove as Gods and Goddesses: Divine Symbolism and Representation

The Mourning Dove isn’t usually linked directly to specific gods or goddesses in myths. Instead, its symbolism reminds us of qualities associated with certain divine figures. 

In Greek mythology, its gentle and loving nature could remind people of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. In Christianity, the Holy Spirit is sometimes represented as a dove, symbolizing purity and divine guidance, which aligns with the Mourning Dove’s message of peace and calm. 

Therefore, even though the Mourning Dove lacks a god or goddess of its own, myths from different cultures often link its traits to numerous deities.

Untangling the Symbolism and Omens of Meeting a Dead Mourning Dove

Coming across a dead Mourning Dove can evoke a mix of emotions. In some cultures, it may be seen as an omen or a sign, often interpreted as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the importance of cherishing each moment. 

It can also prompt reflection on the cycle of life and death in the natural world. Some people might find solace in the idea that the spirit of the dove lives on in the collective memory and symbolism associated with this gentle bird. 

In the end, coming upon a dead Mourning Dove can be a sobering experience that encourages us to reflect on our mortality and the interdependence of all living things.

The Meaning of Mourning Dove Tattoos: Personal Expression and Symbolism

Tattoo Meaning	Interpretation
Joy	Signifies happiness and joyful experiences
Freedom	Represents the desire for freedom and new beginnings
Faith	Symbolizes faith and spiritual beliefs
Love	Represents love and monogamous relationships
Dedication	Signifies dedication and commitment
Spiritual Messenger	Represents spiritual connections

Doves hold significant cultural and religious symbolism across various civilizations. Native American cultures saw them as spirits of the dead.

In Greek mythology, doves were linked to Aphrodite, the goddess of love, while in Aztec culture, the goddess Xoxhiquetzal was often depicted as a dove. Christian culture also associates doves with the story of Noah’s ark.

Dove tattoos convey diverse meanings:

• Joy: Inspired by the symbolism of Noah’s ark, representing the joy of leaving the ark after a prolonged period.
• Freedom: Reflecting the universal idea of flying away to escape negativity for a new, liberated existence.
• Family: Signifying familial bonds, as doves mate for life and care for their chicks together.
• Faith: With strong ties to Christianity, doves are viewed as symbols of faith.
• Dedication: Representing lifelong commitment, as doves mate for life and share in the responsibility of raising their chicks.
• Spiritual Messenger: Rooted in the Christian Bible, where the dove brings news of land by returning with an olive branch.
• Victory: Associated with extending an olive branch to enemies and the dove bringing an olive branch to Noah, symbolizing triumph.
• Beauty: Linked to natural beauty and cultural associations, especially with Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of beauty and love.
• Cultural or Religious Meaning: Doves hold various religious and cultural meanings, acting as messengers from God in Christianity or transforming into spirits of the dead in Native American beliefs.

When choosing a dove tattoo, it’s crucial to assign personal meaning, considering the rich cultural and symbolic implications.

Each individual should reflect on their own connection to the meanings associated with doves to make the tattoo personally significant.

RELATED: Bluebird: Spiritual Meaning, Dream Meaning, Symbolism, & More

The Astrological Meaning of the Mourning Dove: Zodiac Insights

While there is not a specific mourning dove astrological or zodiac sign, there is information on the humble dove itself.

People under this sign are adventurous, independent, and constantly seek new and joyful experiences.

They focus on the future and can be restless, sometimes taking unnecessary risks. Fortunately, they often have luck and fortitude.  

Doves enjoy learning and flourish in environments where there is possibility for development. However, they must work on staying interested in their pursuits as they tend to lose interest as they progress.

Doves can face relationship challenges due to being misunderstood and perceived as unpredictable or self-absorbed, though they aim for honesty.

They resist being tied down and may get bored easily, requiring a partner who understands them. They do well in jobs that include travel, learning new languages, and exploration.

RELATED: Cardinal: Spiritual Meaning, Dream Meaning, Symbolism & More

Discovering Nature’s Gentle Bird: Interesting Mourning Dove Facts and Trivia

• Symbol of Peace and Tranquility: Recognized as symbols of peace and tranquillity due to their gentle cooing and peaceful demeanour.
• Symbolism in Various Cultures: Holds significance in Native American, Greek, Hindu, and Christian cultures, symbolizing themes such as love, spirituality, and divine guidance.
• Monogamous Nature: Known for forming lifelong bonds with a single mate, symbolizing love, devotion, and lasting partnerships.
• Messengers: In Native American folklore, seen as messengers between the spirit world and the physical realm, carrying messages of blessings and guidance.
• Renewal and Rebirth: Associated with renewal and rebirth in various cultures, signifying positive change and new beginnings.
• Connection to Nature: Symbolizes our connection to the natural world, encouraging harmony with nature and nurturing our environment.
• Healing and Solace: Their soothing coo is considered a source of healing and solace, providing comfort during times of grief or distress.
• Versatile Symbolism: This represents not only peace and love but also hope, faith, joy, and beauty, making them versatile symbols in various contexts.
• Integration in Art and Literature: Subjects in literature and art are frequently utilized to evoke deep feelings and concepts, giving creative works more depth.
• Adaptability: Highly adaptable birds, which flourish in a variety of situations, represent people’s capacity to overcome obstacles in life and find peace and harmony under many conditions.

Mourning Dove Symbolism in Daily Life: Useful Applications

Symbolism	Meaning
Peace	Tranquility, harmony
Love	Monogamy, dedication to relationships
Hope	Positive change, renewal
Faith	Spiritual connections, divine guidance
Spiritual Messenger	Communication between realms
Joy	Happiness, fulfillment
Beauty	Natural beauty, aesthetic value
Sadness	Mournful sound, melancholy

Mourning Dove symbolism may not have a direct impact on daily choices, but its ideas can provide insightful guidance and motivation for wellbeing. Here are some examples of how to use mourning dove symbolism in everyday life:

• Finding Peace Amidst Chaos: Emulate the peaceful nature of the Mourning Dove by practising mindfulness and meditation. These techniques can help you find inner peace and calmness, even in challenging situations.
• Cultivating Loving Relationships: Model the devotion and fidelity associated with Mourning Doves in your relationships. Invest time and effort in nurturing and cherishing the bonds with your loved ones.
• Seeking Renewal: Just as the Mourning Dove’s presence signifies new beginnings, use this symbolism as a reminder to embrace change and personal growth. Approach each day with a sense of hope and renewal.
• Acting as a Messenger: In a figurative sense, you can be a messenger of positivity and kindness in your interactions with others. Spread messages of support and encouragement to those around you.
• Harmony with Nature: Recognize how the natural world is interconnected and how it affects your life. Embrace sustainable living and the beauty of nature in your everyday surroundings.
• Healing and Comfort: Offer comfort and support to those in need, whether through a compassionate word or a helping hand. Be a source of solace for friends or family experiencing difficult times.
• Listening and Reflecting: Embrace the importance of active listening and reflection, much like the Mourning Dove’s soft cooing. Take time to truly hear others and reflect on your thoughts and emotions.

Even while these everyday applications of Mourning Dove symbolism might not be obvious, they can operate as a set of guidelines for promoting inner serenity, loving connections with others, and a stronger connection to nature.

RELATED: Albatross: Spiritual Meaning, Dream Meaning, Symbolism And More

Frequently Asked Questions

 What does it mean when I see a Mourning Dove repeatedly? 

Repeated sightings of a Mourning Dove can be seen as a spiritual message, symbolizing peace, hope, or the presence of a guardian spirit. It’s often interpreted as a reminder to seek inner calm and positive change.

 Is the Mourning Dove a symbol of love and relationships in spirituality? 

Yes, in many spiritual traditions, the Mourning Dove is associated with love, fidelity, and nurturing relationships. Its monogamous behaviour often serves as a symbol of enduring love and devotion.

 Are Mourning Doves considered messengers from the spirit world in spiritual beliefs? 

Yes, some spiritual beliefs regard Mourning Doves as messengers between the physical and spiritual realms. Their cooing is seen as conveying messages of guidance, comfort, or blessings from the spirit world.

How can I connect with the symbolism of the Mourning Dove in my daily spiritual practice? 

You can connect with the Mourning Dove’s symbolism by incorporating meditation or mindfulness techniques. Reflect on its qualities of peace, love, and renewal, and use these principles to inspire your spiritual journey.

Are there specific rituals or ceremonies involving Mourning Doves in spiritual traditions? 

While there may not be specific rituals tied to Mourning Doves in all spiritual traditions, some indigenous cultures incorporate their feathers or imagery into ceremonies to invoke their symbolic meanings of peace and guidance.

What is the spiritual significance of finding a Mourning Dove feather? 

Finding a Mourning Dove feather is often considered a spiritual sign or message, representing peace, love, or guidance from the divine. Many see it as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all life.

Can the Mourning Dove symbolize renewal and hope in spirituality? 

Yes, the Mourning Dove’s presence is often associated with new beginnings and positive change, making it a symbol of hope and renewal in many spiritual beliefs.

How can I incorporate the Mourning Dove’s symbolism into my daily spiritual life? 

You can incorporate Mourning Dove symbolism by setting intentions for inner peace, practising acts of kindness, or using their imagery as a visual reminder of their spiritual meanings. Meditation and reflection on their symbolism can also be beneficial.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NMOyaowXnA