Is A Dolphin Tattoo Just Another Tattoo?

Symbolism plays a big part in how we communicate. It was believed to be the earliest form of communication as evidenced throughout history. Man has an innate need to express his feelings. But there are some things that we just cannot put into words, or sometimes words aren't enough, that one single representation is all it takes to deliver the message we want to convey.
One of the most common form of self-expression today is through tattoos. But getting a tattoo is not as simple as buying a new wardrobe that would make a statement. It takes a lot of decision-making as well as researching for meanings of different tattoo designs and ideas. And one of the today's favorite tattoo designs is the dolphin tattoo.
Men and women alike seem to favor dolphin tattoo designs. It could either be a single dolphin, or multiple ones. It could also be combined with other tattoo designs such as flowers, tribal themes, and other symbols. A dolphin tattoo is also commonly depicted in the color of the ocean but it could also be done in colors that the wearer fancies.
But what makes a dolphin tattoo so popular? Aside from it being cute, the meaning that a dolphin tattoo portrays is deeper than what meets the eye. Dolphins have long been believed to be the link between humans and the underwater world. Dolphins are mammals just like us. They are warm-blooded, intelligent, they communicate through their own language, they need air to survive, they give birth to live young and arrange themselves into families or pods. No wonder us humans identify with these animals! But the appeal of the dolphin does not end there.
Dolphins are free-spirited, playful, and are often seen frolicking in the water and this is what some of us want to capture in a dolphin tattoo. They represent freedom, happiness, and love for life. The symbol of the dolphin is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the person wearing it. It is also the symbol of rebirth and hope for a better life ahead.
In Celtic beliefs, dolphins, which is associated with water, has the power to cleanse and rejuvenate a person and start life anew. In Chinese philosophy, two dolphins represent harmony. In Native American culture, these gentle creatures symbolize kindness, play energy, and wisdom. They are regarded as the messengers of knowledge from deep within us. When dolphins show up in the form of dreams, it is often positively regarded. Dolphins in dreams represent change, hope, and happiness.
There are different representations for the dolphin symbol for different people, different cultures and different beliefs. And through a dolphin tattoo, these positive representations of this gentle creature are carried by the wearer. But for some, it is solely the beauty of the dolphin that determines whether they would show up on the surface of their skin or not. And sometimes, even that is enough.