WHAT IS A MANDALA?
The name mandala is Sanskrit and translates into “circle” or “center” and is said to represent our wholeness and the universe. A mandala is commonly circular in shape and can be simple in design or incredibly complex. It can have many different parts and shapes to it or within it.
Mandalas have been part of most cultures throughout the world, from the Navajo Indians to the Buddhist Monks where they have been featured in various rituals and spiritual connections.
“Each person’s life is like a mandala – a vast, limitless circle. We stand in the center of our own circle, and everything we see, hear and think forms the mandala of our life…everything that shows up in your mandala is a vehicle for your awakening.”
– Pema Chodron
WHERE CAN WE FIND MANDALAS?
You can find mandalas in architecture, and they are a common theme in decor like fabrics and furniture.
If we look really closely, we can find mandalas within nature – take flowers and many plants for example. If we look even closer at different seeds we might find little mandalas within those too. Or the spider weaving her intricate mandala shaped web.
Our cells, when looked through a microscope will reveal some amazing mandalas. Our earth is round and starts with an inner core that builds and layers outward. What about snowflakes!
Anywhere you look, whether its human made or occurs naturally in nature, we can find mandalas.
WHAT DOES THE MANDALA MEAN OR REPRESENT?
A mandala is often referred to as a representation of our wholeness, and the universe. It is often viewed as a cosmic diagram that extends both beyond and within our bodies and our minds. The mandala represents self-development and spiritual growth. Connection to all and everything. Unity. Circle of life. Sacredness.
“The integrated view of the world represented by the mandala, while long embraced by some Eastern religions, has now begun to emerge in Western religious and secular cultures. Awareness of the mandala may have the potential of changing how we see ourselves, our planet, and perhaps even our own life purpose.”
(From Mandala: Journey to the Center, by Bailey Cunningham)
The mandala is becoming quite important in our society. Maybe because they are incredibly helpful in meditation and healing. They act as a great relief for anxiety and depression. They soothe us and calm us. And they are so beautiful.
Go out and explore for yourself – it’s quite incredible how much they are part of our lives – both visibly and hidden. Truly magical and enchanting. <3 M xx
Further Reading:
- MANDALA TUTORIAL: Learn how to draw mandalas.
- MY STORY – Mandala Art Journey of Self Discovery
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