Mandalas 101

Mandalas are visual tools to help one focus and open the mind simultaneously. Each mandala provides a unique brain stimulus, leading one down differing paths to spiritual clarity and enlightenment. By fixing your eyes on a mesmerizing image, such as a mandala, you distract your consciousness into becoming receptive to new truths and inspirations.

"A mandala is a pattern of power that represents the whole circle of existence. Its circular shape encloses a depiction of a holistic cosmos. Mandala shapes naturally occur in the organic world; their perfect forms can be seen in atomic structures, crystals, and flowers, as well as solar systems and wave forms. It has been said to be a primal circular pattern that has existed in nature since the beginning of time." ~ Taken from Mandalas & Meditations for Everyday Living by Cassandra Lorius

Mandalas are used in many cultures, including the Navajo tribal members found in Arizona. The mandala was used as a vehicle for shamanic journeys and the Navajos used them to describe journeys into the spirit realm. The medicine man would create sand paintings of mandalas and use them in healing rituals designed to banish disease.

Learn More

Create your own mandala!

In the process of creating a mandala, you will "become one with it", enabling you to find balance and in tune with how you are truly
connected.

Use a bowl to create a circle and lightly divide the circle into as many sections as you desire... follow your intuition... begin to superimpose free form shapes over the top. Use motifs, symbols and colors that represent your values or goals. Use the Chakra color guide below to help you create symbolism in your mandala.

The Chakra Colors

White ~ Masculine/Perfection

Red ~ Feminine/Dynamic

Orange ~ Joy

Yellow ~ Sun Energy

Green ~ Nature/Love/Peace

Indigo ~ Intangibles at the edge of consciousness

Violet ~ Imagination/Inspiration/Meditation

Pink ~ Love/Tenderness

Black ~ Intangibles beyond consciousness

Silver ~ Lunar

Gold ~ Solar

The creation of the mandala itself is a great way to begin a meditation practice!

Source: Mandalas and Meditations for Everyday Living by Cassandra Lorius

Try a Mandala Coloring Book
by Phoenix artist,
Tracy Dove