What is a mandala? It is a kind of geometric design contained in a circular pattern that represents wholeness. Mandala symbols can be found throughout the world from Navajo to Tibetan culture. The word “mandala” is from the old Indian language of Sanskrit, meaning circle and it is symbolic of the universe (Mandalas for Power & Energy ). The circle pattern is also found throughout nature in flowers, tree trunks and shells.
We discovered that colouring mandalas is a soothing and peaceful way to spend time in the WISH Learning Centre. We offer it as one of several options on the table. Colouring a mandala is an individual activity that lets a woman focus on one thing. It gives her a chance to find her own centredness in the circle. The mandala designs are fixed but the use of colours is totally up to each individual, depending on their mood and preference. Mandalas bring a sense of balance, and it is known that they promote the cross communication of the right and left brains.
We found that the most popular mandalas were ones that had Indigenous people’s symbols on them. These are not easy to find. We had one book that outlined mandalas from all over Turtle Island, but unfortunately it is out of print. Other mandalas, Buddhist, Celtic or original designs also work. Our local artist, Diane Wood, designed a beautiful mandala for us to use as a handout in this chapter.
When we started working with mandalas, we had no idea how much was known about their therapeutic effect. We discovered that since ancient times, people have used mandalas as a meditation and a healing reference. Buddhist monks and Hopi shamans have used mandalas created in sand to achieve inner reflection and to assist in healing ceremonies. Colouring mandalas also provides a nice backdrop for conversation and check-ins.
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It is possible to create more challenging exercises with Mandalas, such as making your own, or creating a visual picture of your goals and assets, but these ideas change the mandala from a relaxing, soothing, pastime to a challenging activity.
Mandala Websites and Resources:
Mandalas for Power & Energy, Marion and Werner Kustenmacher, Ste ling Publishing Company, Inc., New York, New York, 2003.
Tibetan Mandalas, Tatjana Blau, Sterling Publishing Company, Inc., New York, New York, 1998.