Creating mandalas can promote well-being and reduce anxiety. The word mandala literally means “circle” although many shapes are used. Symbols of the ideal Whole, or a message from the unconscious, mandalas are also aids to meditation or introspection.
Originating in Buddhism, mandalas have also been adopted by Hinduism, New Age Spirituality, and other religious beliefs. The mandala is a universal symbol appearing appeared consistently throughout history, representing the unity of the Self.
A mandala is a geometric pattern made of symbols. It can consist of a square enclosed by circles or have circles superimposed on it. Another frequent design element is the lotus shape.
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Across different spiritual practices, mandalas serve multiple purposes such as concentrating the attention of practitioners and experts, acting as a tool for spiritual guidance, creating a sacred environment, and aiding in meditation and trance induction.
In the Eastern religions of Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Shinto it is used as a map representing deities, or especially in the case of Shinto, paradises, kami or actual shrines. Rose windows are a type of mandala in some religious architecture.
Overall a mandala is created on five main elements:
symmetry
geometry
color
number
intention
By understanding and purposefully combining these aspects, one can use mandalas to enhance and energize spaces. They have a positive effect in the environment and on people who engage with them.
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Within mandala art, an outer circle of fire typically represents wisdom. A ring of eight charnel grounds is a chthonic reminder to be mindful of death and the impermanence inherent in samsara (birth/death/rebirth cycle).
Within the circles are the walls of the mandala palace itself, a realm inhabited by deities and Buddhas. In therapy, mandalas symbolize a form of fresh alignment. They can reflect longing for organization, equilibrium, and completeness.
According to Jung, mandalas as psychological symbols tend to emerge particularly during tumultuous mental phases of confusion or distress. When a mandala appears in dreams or recurringly in conscious vision it's a sign the person is ready to move forward.
In analytic psychology, the mandala is a symbol of the unconscious self in the concept of the universal Whole. Jung integrates mandalas into therapy sessions and encourages patients to make their own.
Mandalas have been used for centuries as powerful tools in therapeutic practices, The intricate geometric designs serve as a focal point for meditation. In making a mandala, complexity of design is not required.
It can be as simple or elaborate as desired, keeping balance in mind. Colors have various meanings and again, one or two colors, or many can be used. The process of creating or simply gazing upon mandalas gives a sense of calmness and clarity.
The creator is mindful of balance and harmony. The mandala becomes a personal and unique expression. Creation of mandalas can be a meditative and therapeutic practice in itself. It allows artistic expression, and communication with the unconscious mind.
Drawing, painting or coloring mandalas stimulates self-awareness and emotional release.
The technique focusses on process rather than end result.
It offers a creative outlet for self-expression and a calming experience of being present in the moment. The practitioner is encouraged to contemplate the mandala quietly for a few minutes when finished.
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