Simone, your dream about the pufferfish carries profound symbolism and reflects various aspects of your subconscious mind. The pufferfish, known for its ability to inflate and appear more intimidating, might represent a part of you that feels the need to protect itself or put up defenses. Given your struggles with anxiety and past traumatic experiences, this could be your mind's way of processing feelings of vulnerability and the mechanisms you use to cope with them.
The act of almost eating the pufferfish but then setting it free is particularly significant. This suggests an internal conflict between confronting your fears and anxieties head-on versus opting for a more gentle, forgiving approach. It indicates a moment of realization or decision where you choose to release the pressure instead of internalizing it. This can be seen as a positive move towards self-compassion and healing, showing a desire to let go of burdens rather than consume or be consumed by them.
Moreover, the pufferfish's unique characteristics might also symbolize aspects of yourself that you feel are misunderstood or misjudged by others. Your history of relationship difficulties and feelings of sadness may contribute to this sense of being perceived differently than you really are. Setting the pufferfish free could symbolize a wish to be understood and accepted without having to inflate or exaggerate parts of yourself for protection or validation.
Additionally, the underwater setting of the dream could be indicative of deep emotions and the subconscious mind.