Sure, tattoo designs might have no specific meaning or story behind them. Sometimes, a flower is just a flower and a moon just a moon. But more often than not, pinpointing body art that can be loved for years to come requires at least a bit of psychological exploration. What's the message that it projects to others? What emotions does it convey, what's the symbolism behind it?
In other words, tattoo designs are quite often reflections of a wearer's identity. It's why body art that marks a challenging or celebratory milestone, or that pays tribute to loved ones are so popular. There is something about choosing a tattoo that marks a person in a way that is more than skin-deep — sometimes even the person with the tattoo didn't anticipate.
But the message behind a tattoo can be even more subtle. Perhaps it resonates for its basic symbolism and how that helps the owner connect to a part of herself. It's a need that moms in particular may feel, as they take on a new maternal role and might want a visual touchstone that reminds them of who they are at their core. And maybe that's a bit of a hippie, free spirit, a wild child?
Thankfully, there are a bevy of beautiful symbols that speak to an inner hunger for adventure, embracing independence, and feeling connected with the earth. High-soaring birds, quotes about the wind, celestial-themed designs that bring to mind the scope of the universe, wildflowers, falling leaves, and other elements from nature are innately … well, wild are all absolutely perfect choices for anyone who wants to look down at a tattoo and smile, feel empowered, or reconnect to her inner wild child.
Here, 20 super-pretty, whimsical tattoo designs that will help moms channel their inner free spirit.
Hummingbird Tattoo

This hummingbird tattoo strikes a hopeful, free-spirited note.
Compass tattoo

This stunning back piece screams wanderlust.
Bright Mandala

The extremely bright colors in this spiritual mandala tattoo are truly breathtaking.
Simply "Free" Tattoo

Just say it with this pretty script and bird tattoo.
Giraffe Tattoo

Nothing says wild like body art of the tallest living terrestrial animal on the planet.
"Beyond Fear" Tattoo

This pretty back tattoo embraces facing inner demons — and looking beyond them …
Lion Tattoo

Another creature that brings to mind fierce free-spiritedness: the regal lion.
Wild Rose Tattoo

The colors and shape of this stunning wild rose tattoo are downright romantic.
Paint-Splattered Roses

These thrilling paint-splattered roses on a calf have eye-catching dimension.
Draped Leaves

This draping vine is all at once charming and earthy.
Unalome Tattoo

A Unalome is perfect if one's inner free spirit feels like it's the key to the path to enlightenment.
Floral Peace Sign Tattoo

Colorful flowers make up this hippie spirit peace sign tattoo.
Colorful Woman

With a flower in her hair and peace sign glasses, this colorful woman clearly has a wild heart and spirit.
Crazy Daisies Tattoo

Gorgeous, wild daisies dazzle on this inner arm piece.
Crane Tattoo

This crane tattoo almost looks like it was painted with watercolors.
Tiny Wildflowers

These colorful wildflowers are sure to symbolize untamed beauty.
Bird Tree Tattoo

A tree that calls to mind a bird is bursting with free-spirited symbolism.
'Like the Wind' Tattoo

These wrist quote tattoos tell it like it is.
'She Flies' Tattoo

This quote tattoo embraces independence.
Moon & Stars Tattoo

This tiny celestial ankle tattoo is a simple reminder of the universe's vastness.