Mandalas are popular. Now and since centuries.
They have been used by a lot of different cultures for many many years.
And the meanings of a mandala depends upon color, geometric elements and culture.
They are not only very beautiful they also have a positive effect on you.
Mandalas around the world
Mandalas are typically associated with Buddhism and Hinduism, where it is a spiritual and ritual symbol, representing the universe. The circular designs symbolizes the idea that life is never ending and everything is connected. In Sanskrit mandalas means “circles”. And they are sacred symbols that are used for meditation, prayer, healing and art therapy for both adults and children.
Tibatan monks draw mandalas with sand, work on it for months sometimes, and then, when it is finished, they wipe it all again. A practice that everything is impermanent and detachment.
Also you see mandalas in Christianity, like the rose windows, the Celtic cross; the rosary; the halo, etc.
In Persian art you Also see many mandalas.
The Mayan Calendar om 13 moons (the Tzolkin) is similar to a mandala.
And the Sun Stone of the Aztec civilization looks like one.
The power of a mandala
Did you know that in clinical studies mandalas have been shown the following results:
- It boost the immune system
- Reduces stress and pain
- Lowers the blood pressure
- Promotes sleep
- Ease depression
Some schools use coloring pages with a mandala, as an assignment for all the children. But also to give them to those who have finished a task while others are still working on it.
Getting your own madala
You can buy mandala wall art, stickers, stamp, color books for children and even for adults.
Of course you can buy one but why not draw one yourself?!
Just freehand
On a piece of paper, or draw them yourself on the wall.
Drawing and coloring a mandala can be used as an exercise or for meditation.
They help with balance. They bring peace and tranquility.
It does not have to be perfect.
It is fun to do, because it is a form of self-expression.
And even looking at them can give you a feeling of relaxation and calmness.
Decorating my balcony wall
Some time ago I gave away my wonderful book about mandalas to a girl next door, as she loves art and drawing. This book inspired me and taught me more about the art and meaning of mandalas.
However, I did not really draw my own, somehow.
Till some days ago. I felt I wanted to express myself more then only color on paper. I wanted big.
In combination that my walls around my balcony were pretty boring and slightly ugly.
I found my box of color chalk and with a basic idea, I just started. And within 30 minutes, I made this big half mandala on my wall.
I am not sure mandalas have this calming effect on animals as well….. but I think my dog Bella seems to like it.
So what to do when you are bored, restless, or in lockdown?!
Or when you have a bit of ugly wall like me?
And you have a box full of color chalk? (easy to wash away again)
Exactly….
Express yourself, enjoy and relax.
I have a few more walls left. And 9 other colors.
How you change a wall in less than 30 minutes
Hi, I am Jolinda Cath, massage and Reiki therapist and yoga instructor.
With my blogs I hope to inspire you to improve your health and increase your well-being and overall feeling of happiness. For more ideas and tips check out my page Jolindas inspiration.