When most people sit down to think about a creative idea for a sea tattoo, usually, a seahorse design is not the one that first comes on their mind. Although this unique sea creature is globally recognized, the thing that can surprise you is that this little seahorse has a very compelling history behind it. Before you decide on your next tattoo design, consider all the amazing meanings hidden in the mysterious seahorse, and perhaps you may discover that you share many of the same characteristics as this popular sea creature.
History of the Seahorse:
Very similar to the other sea creatures, the seahorses symbolize the life of the ocean. To get a better understanding of why all the mystery about the seahorse, you only need to look at the genus this species is associated with. The hippocampus, also known as sea monster horse, is closely linked to creativity partly due to the fact that the hippocampus region of the human brain is responsible for our long-term memory. These tiny sea creatures share the common element of water with the human mind, and yogis and spiritual gurus practice their unique meditations near flowing water to connect the subconscious and creativity through meditation.
In ancient Roman and Greek cultures, the seahorse has quite a unique history. These tiny totems were considered as messengers and servants of the god of seas, Poseidon. The seahorse served for carrying the lost souls of those who died in the dark depths of the sea. It is no coincidence in the Disney classic the “Little Mermaid” that King Triton’s messengers and servants were all seahorses, a testament to the legends from the Romans and Greeks.
Understanding the Role:
First of all, in order to understand all the unique meanings behind the seahorse tattoo, you have to get to know this fantastic creature in more detail. The male seahorse is the bearer of the responsibility when it comes to pregnancy, birth, and raising the young. With a unique twist on the popular birthing protocol, the male seahorse gets pregnant, carries all the young to term, and then utilizes their pouch to give the babies safe harbor until they hatch and grow. The female-only stops by occasionally to coddle the young, and then she is gone. After being expelled from the male at night, the babies are ready to take on their roles in the deep sea.
Symbolic meanings of a Seahorse Tattoo:
Since now you have a better understanding of the secretive, mysterious, and alluring seahorse, it is time to explain why so many people feel that they have a connection on a deeper level with this sea creature. The seahorse is the symbol of tranquility and patience as it glides effortlessly even in troubled seas. This sea creature provides unique protection for their young and is a symbol of cooperation and friendship. Furthermore, the seahorse is a sea creature that stands for persistence. These fantastic creatures from the depth of the ocean are also often associated with meditation, creativity, and even fatherhood because the male seahorse gets pregnant and deliver the offspring.
Ideas for a Seahorse Tattoo:
One of the main reasons why people decide to get this tattoo design is the enormous amount of variation in color, style, and design associated with this mysterious creature of the depth. Many tattoo artists have no problem to incorporate other marine elements into the design, like starfish, coral, and even mermaids. Below are some of the possible designs of a seahorse tattoo:
- The Cartoon – When most people think about a cartoon seahorse, they have a tendency to associate it with those images from the popular Disney classic “The Little Mermaid.” These cartoon designs, colorfully depicted, are the symbol of a fun-loving person, someone with a jovial side who wants to tell the others that they have respect for the world. Others say that these tattoo designs represent friendship, cooperation, and endless love.
- Tribal Tattoos– To draw the spiritual energy of an animal into your being, tribe elders and the tribe’s shaman often tattooed themselves and the members of their tribe with its image. Just like with all the tribal patterns, each mark has a specific meaning that is usually used to represent daily life, evoke the help of long-deceased ancestors, or to express gratitude to the gods for their gifts of mercy. The tribal Seahorse Tattoos are the perfect choice for showing the world that you identify closely with a region’s native culture and that, like the seahorse, you can overcome the problematic currents in life and protect those closest to you in order to evolve into something magnificent.
No matter which design you chose, a seahorse tattoo is an excellent way to show the world that, despite your tiny size, you are much more than you appear to be. You are a protector, a provider, and even in the face of obstacles and challenges, you are a fighter. You can add any number of elements or symbols to your artwork, from delicate mermaids to a bundle of bubbles. The most important thing is that your body art remains true to your personality and the message that you’re trying to send to the world.
