What do water dreams mean? Water is one of the most common dream symbols and is usually associated with the emotions and the unconscious. Swimming, paddling or rowing down the river may suggest you are going with the flow and experiencing no difficulties; going up the river suggests you are going against the natural flow or experiencing difficulties; or you are going against your intuition. You may be making things harder for yourself than they have to be. Taking a shower or bath may suggest you are cleansing yourself, releasing your negative thoughts and emotions -- washing your troubles away. To be underwater may suggest you are feeling overwhelmed or you are in over your head emotionally or financially. Alternately, you may be exploring your unconscious, seeking inner guidance or uncovering repressed emotions or memories. Water Colors: Clear Water – This is a posi...