Have you ever wondered about your tattoo placement, or just followed your instincts? Is there even a difference in placing the same tattoo on different parts? That was the main question I asked myself before having my first one. After some research, I found out that there actually is! Even if the placement was chosen arbitrarily, when explaining the following to anyone with a tattoo, they could relate directly.
Having a tattoo on each part of the body has its own symbolism, related to the tattoo itself, and to the person’s characteristics. Below you can find a simple clarification about that.
Let’s start with the main distinctions: Front/Back, and Left/Right.
Front and Back
- Front: The front symbolizes the future — our aspirations, values, and life lessons we carry forward.
- Back: The back represents the past — completed life chapters and experiences we wish to leave behind, and sometimes look back on.
Left and Right
- Right Side: Associated with the left brain, it embodies Yang’s qualities — action, strength, and positivity.
- Left Side: Linked to the right brain, it encompasses Yin attributes — emotion, protection, and nostalgia.
The Boxer Analogy
Imagine a boxing match. You use your right arm to attack and your left arm to defend. Similarly, your right leg starts the journey, and your left leg follows, carrying the weight of experience. Instinctively, you’ll shield your body’s core while exposing less vital areas to mitigate incoming blows. You’ll confront your opponent by proudly displaying your chest and only show your back when you’re at a safe distance or the confrontation has ended.
Based on this analogy, we can list the psychological, unconscious meaning of tattoo placement on different parts of the body.
Head
- Head/Face: Linked with intelligence and consciousness, tattoos here may signify a desire for spiritual growth, transcending past challenges.
- Eyes/Eyelids: Viewed as the “windows to the soul”, tattoos in this region can symbolize deeper insight, clarity, and heightened intuition.
- Ears: Representing hearing and communication, tattoos here might mean openness to spiritual messages and a willingness to understand others.
- Nose: Associated with discernment, a tattoo here could indicate a heightened sense of awareness and balance in life.
- Mouth (and inner lip): Tattoos near or in the mouth can denote an emphasis on mindfulness, communication, and being in the present moment.
Arms
- Right Arm: Used for attacking, symbolizes active, impulsive energy.
- Left Arm: Acts as a protective shield, often linked to the heart and emotions.
Hands/Fingers
Hands symbolize action and creativity, aiding in turning aspirations into reality. Spiritually, each finger embodies distinct energies, and in astrology, they align with various planetary forces. Tattoos on hands can enhance well-being, prosperity, and health. Given the historical workplace aversion to visible tattoos, tattoos on hands also convey a rebellious spirit due to their constant visibility.
Trunk
- Back: Houses memories or values you’ve moved past.
- Lower Back: Represents what you wish to leave behind.
- Spine: Symbolizes enduring values or past experiences that still influence you.
- Belly: Stands for what nourishes and energizes you.
- Chest: Displays bold messages or deeply sentimental values.
- Ribcage: Conceals your intimate self.
Buttocks/Hips/Genitals
Tattoos on the buttocks, hips, or genitals often symbolize playfulness, sensuality, and fertility. These areas, which traditionally represent fertility across cultures, can enhance one’s connection to their sensual and creative energies. Those choosing to get tattoos in these regions might experience a heightened sense of joy and playfulness.
Legs
- Right Leg: Initiates new journeys, not always cautiously.
- Left Leg: Follows the right leg but carries life experiences and rationality. It often ends the journey.
Ankles
Ankles and feet, pivotal for bipedal movement, symbolize our primary link to the Earth. In many spiritual beliefs, they are seen as the body’s “root” denoting stability and safety. Tattoos in these areas can enhance feelings of being grounded and secure in one’s daily life.
When deciding on tattoo placements, considering their spiritual significance can deepen the body-spirit connection and make the experience more meaningful. Even if not, unconsciously, the placement will be chosen accordingly.
