The word ‘Mandala’ in Sanskrit means ‘circle’ or ‘completion’. A mandala represents wholeness, harmony, and integrity. It is a spiritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism representing the ‘universe’. All mandalas start from a center point by making a circle and then filling the circle with patterns, symbols, designs, etc. Carl Jung defined Mandalas as ‘representation of unconscious self’. He used Mandalas in his therapy and also motivated his patients to make their own mandalas. He found that Mandalas brought about healing and self-reflection.
Mandalas are pieces of artwork used for healing, meditation, and spiritual development. Mandala art therapy helps in reflecting on one’s soul and expressing emotions. One doesn’t have to be an artist to practice mandala art therapy because just like other art therapies mandala making is not about the final product, it is about the journey of making a mandala. It is a representation of something very meaningful and personal.
Mandala art therapy is widely used with patients with dementia, Down Syndrome, and Alzheimer’s. Drawing, coloring, or painting mandalas acts as a meditative technique which helps the patients to relax and relieve stress.
Three ways in which Mandalas are used for healing are Mandala Meditation, creating a Mandala, and Colouring a Mandala.
During the process of making mandalas a person is mindful of what they are drawing which helps them focus their energy and thought on something which helps them to get rid of any anxiety and stress. Mandalas help in increasing balance and optimism in one’s life. People who color mandalas experience a sense of calm and it promotes the wellbeing of an individual. Coloring mandalas can have health benefits for people of all age groups. Anyone can pick up a mandala coloring book and just start coloring.Mandala art therapy can be very soothing and nourishing for a person.
From my personal experience Mandalas helped me in gaining a new perspective of life and getting rid of stress & over-thinking. Mandalas have helped me to be more mindful and I also learned to be more patient. Taking out just 30 minutes for yourself and drawing one small mandala or coloring a mandala can be very calming and therapeutic.
