.JPG)
Pillows embody the essence of rest and luxury. Holistically, they can produce a desirable flow of renewing and refining interior energy. Whether purely for comfort or decor, the tangible qualities associated with your pillows and cushions express elements of their inherent symbolism.
The look and feel of where we rest our heads signify the ideas from which we draw the most contentment. Most of us sleep on rectangular pillows. The rectangle represents materialism and retention (think bricks and buildings), so it would be safe to say that most of us take comfort in material permanence. The larger the pillow, the more we like to retain.
Below are a list of other shapes and their meanings
- square: solidity and structuralism
- circle: infinity and perfectionism
- sphere: spirituality
- heart: romance
- star: excellence, idealism
Fabrics and stuffing also carry symbolic significance. The ouside of the pillow gives off the first impression while the inside represents where one invests his or her energy or spirit. For example, a high thread count cotton pillow stuffed with goosedown would indicate at first glance a simple yet strong life path. Down, in this case, symbolizes lightheartedness and enjoyment, so such would be where the owner invests his or her energy.
More fabrics and stuffing symbolism...
- Styrofoam: change
- plastic: flexibility
- polyester: sufficiency
- cotton: simplicity
- wool: warmth
- flannel: relaxation
- fur: protection, primal power
- lace: sensual pragmaticism
- satin: brilliance, competency
- velvet: honor, distinction
- silk: delicacy, prestige
- leather: instinctual toughness
Accents and accessories add bold statements of character to your pillow, like they would on a piece of art in your home or garment on your body. A sash can subtly denote mystery and preservation, while gemstones and a peacock feather declare ambition and success, respectively. Noting the type and color of jewels (this goes for fabric, too), one can more deeply study the meaning behind their embellishments.
- buttons: wealth, security
- brooches: expression
- gemstones: life, ambition
- precious metals: strength, desire
- ribbons: playfulness, frivolity
- bows: femininity, social ties
- flowers: gentleness, beauty
- leaves: time, progression
Each element of design gives off a unique energy that interacts with us visually and palpably, which explains why decorative pillows are great conversation starters, and luxury cushions often therapeutic.
