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Dragonflies are fascinating diurnal, agile flying insects. They might look menacing with their enormous eyes, slim bodies, and whirring wings. But these critters do not sting and can come in various colors: black, brown, yellow, red, blue, and all the hues in between. Let's explore what they are and what they spiritually mean.

Dragonflies hunt other insects, especially mosquitoes, flies, and moths, and when they are not hovering over clear water, they take shelter in some vegetation. They are not only predators of other smaller insects, they constitute prey for fish and birds. That makes them a good help to gardeners and because they need clear water, scientists see them as bioindicators for the health of an ecosystem. They can mate while flying, and our helicopters were designed to hover and take off vertically by observing them. Dragonflies can even change flight direction mid-air and fly backward! If you are lucky enough to observe them copulating, you will notice how they form the shape of an eight or what is cited as a "mating wheel". The females then lay the eggs in freshwater moments after mating and fly away. The larvae will remain in the water for up to three years, feeding on insect larvae or insects. Dragonflies compensate for their lack of ears, and hence the impossibility of hearing, with an amazing sense of vibration and vision. There are thousands of species of dragonflies and the only place where you cannot find any dragonflies is Antarctica.

In most cultures, dragonflies symbolize transformation and change, new beginnings and fresh starts, adaptability and grace, emotional depth and maturity, agility and speed, connection to nature, and poise. Because these creatures gravitate between air and water, what they represent is tied to our emotions as well as our minds. Their short lifespan of seven months is a reminder for us to embrace each moment to the fullest. For some Native Americans, dragonflies are the souls of those who have passed peacefully into the spiritual realm. To the Hopi tribe, they are healing beings. For the Japanese, they illustrate courage, happiness, and rebirth. Whereas the Chinese link dragonflies to monetary prosperity. The Vietnamese see dragonflies as a harbinger of hope. In India, dragonflies are tied to good vision and perseverance. They make it possible for us to be guided by our higher selves. In the Swedish tradition, dragonflies predict injury and tragedy. For the Danes and Portuguese, dragonflies are referred to as the devil's needle because they lose their colors when they die. They perceive them as a token of illusion and deception.

Spotting a red dragonfly is not a common occurrence. It can be a sign to channel energies more efficiently and these critters are associated with passion and motivation. An orange dragonfly embodies health, creativity, and joy. Because of the way dragonflies seem to be dancing in the air, they are inviting you to follow your intuitions more, especially when they come in this color shade. Yellow dragonflies are related to being on the verge of an intellectual breakthrough. Green dragonflies are said to be an omen for abundance and financial growth. Blue dragonflies are special. Because blue is the color of compassion and empathy, these dragonflies entice you to communicate better with others on an emotional level and also with yourself, by listening actively, understanding, and meditating. Purple dragonflies are a majestic sight and depict divine connection and spirituality. They invite you to pay attention to your dreams and premonitions. Brown dragonflies indicate the need to remain authentic and true to your roots. Black stands for power, magic, and mystery. These dragonflies are supposed to guide your path and encourage you to delve deep into yourself to find healing.

Happy gardening 🌱🌱🌱 and enjoy nature!