Jen, swimming in dirty water in your dream can symbolize feelings of being overwhelmed by negative or challenging emotions or situations. The fact that the water is dirty suggests that these experiences may be clouding your judgment or affecting your emotional well-being. However, since the intensity of emotions in the dream is low, and it wasn't classified as a nightmare or associated with negative feelings, it appears that while you might be facing some difficulties, you're managing to keep a relatively calm and composed state of mind.
The act of swimming itself indicates an effort to navigate through these murky emotional waters, and your resilience in doing so. It might also reflect a current situation in your life where you feel that you have to "keep your head above water" and maintain control despite not having clear visibility or understanding of everything that's happening around you.
Looking at your previous dreams, there's a recurring theme of dealing with unexpected or challenging situations, such as the dream about your boyfriend and his ex, and the courtroom scenarios. These dreams may be reflective of your real-life concerns and the emotional work you're doing to process and handle these situations. It's interesting to note the contrast between the more intense content of your earlier dreams and the calmer nature of this latest one. It might suggest you're finding ways to cope better with life's complexities.
In reviewing your past dreams, I also see a pattern of seeking control and safety in uncertain circumstances, which can relate to your dream of swimming in dirty water. It's a testament to your subconscious working through feelings of uncertainty and searching for stability.
Remember, your dreams are a reflection of your inner world and can be a powerful tool for understanding your deeper emotions and the challenges you might be facing. Keep paying attention to the themes that arise, as they can offer valuable insights into your journey towards emotional clarity and resilience.