"Sometimes, I need to go off on my own…
I am not sad.
I am not angry.
I am just recharging
…my batteries."
Mandala is an intricate abstract design that is usually circular in form. It means "Circle" in Sanskrit. Mandalas generally have one identifiable center point, from which emanates an array of symbols, shapes and structures which are called motifs containing both geometric and organic forms. They can also have recognizable images that carry meaning for the person who is creating it.
When we draw a mandala, we need to maintain balance and symmetry. We need to be mindful while creating it. We add minute details with repetitive patterns, including an array of symbols, shapes, forms called motifs. This minute details add a lot of character to the artwork and makes it more attractive. And the beauty is that even if there are mistakes, it teaches us to let go. That's the beauty, it makes our flaws look beautiful!
In essence, mandalas are the connection between our inner worlds and outer reality. Hence, creating your own mandalas can be both inspirational and therapeutic. When I started practising Mandala, I found it not only attractive but also found that it is not just a form of art but also a form of meditating, and I find myself at peace.
Here are 3 ways in which Mandalas can be healing:
Meditation:
Choose a Mandala that you'd like to look at. Ideally, it helps if you can set an intention for what you want to heal first and then select the Mandala you're naturally attracted to.
Once you have chosen your Mandala, begin by focusing on the center of the circle. It is at this point that you can 'enter' the Mandala and experience what it symbolizes. Just continue keeping your focus on the center and then navigate your way towards the outside as you go through the motifs used in this Mandala. Observe the curves, the movements of the intricate designs. If there are colors, just connect with your thoughts at that moment and observe them. Observe and be with the thoughts. Do not think or analyze. Just be aware and observe your thoughts as they evolve in your mind while you navigate through the Mandala. Take slow, deep and relaxing breaths and come out of the experience as you are ready for it.
Create
Creating your own Mandala can be a very healing experience as well. You can do this in many ways. Create one with watercolours, crayons, pastels, flowers, leaves, rocks, or gemstones.
Create your Mandala by working from the inside out. There's no right way to do this. It's a very personal thing and a great way to experiment.
Continue focusing on your intention as you create and draw your Mandala. Hang it in a place where you will see it often.
Colour
Colouring an existing Mandala is a great way to get yourself familiar with your inner self, and you can consider the spiritual significance of colours in your life and nature as you engage in it. The primary Mandala colours are white, yellow, red, green, and blue.
White stand for letting go of ignorance and turn it into acceptance, purity, and wisdom.
Yellow helps to convert pride into oneness, compassion, and abundance.
Red helps in reducing attachment and fear and turns it into confidence, freedom, and power.
Green heals jealousy and turns it into unconditional love, understanding, and accomplishment.
Blue is beneficial in healing anger and turn it into self-reflection, self-expression, and intuitive perception.
To be fair, there are no right or wrong mandalas. Allow your intuition to guide you. Allow them to heal you.