Mandala thangka, meditation device The word of Mandala is a Sanskrit tram that loosely translates to mean “circle” or “Center”. Mandala are an object of meditation to aid in one’s spiritual development, it is famously known as a spiritual and ritual symbol in many Asian culture. The imagery depicts the universe and the symbols represent one’s spiritual journey, the cycles of birth-life-death, and the interconnectedness of all living things.
“It’s all about finding peace in the symmetry of the design and of the universe,” whereas in Buddhist tradition, the emphasis is on the potential for enlightenment (Buddha-nature) and the pictue within the mandalas illustrate the obstacles that one has to overcome in order to cultivate compassion and wisdom.
There are many types of mandalas are can see, but among them four types of mandalas are popular.
Healing mandala
Teaching Mandala
Sand mandala.
Mantra mandala
All Mandala’s are created from the center out and take on their own shapes, colors, and patterns depending on the message or healing that is being evoked.
An image of Mandala can symbolize everything in life that is interconnected and never-ending. A circle is a great symbol to illustrate that life has no end and spirits never disappear, and everything is just a part of nature, the world, and the universe. Likewise, from the Buddhism perspective, death is not the final state of the existence cycle, but it is just a passing phase of life. In other words, life is infinity and the wholesome of spirit. As well as traditional buddhist Mandala is known as four quadrants which are said to represent loving-kindness, compassion, sympathy, and equanimity.
Mandala for Emotional and Mental Healing.
There is also rich symbolism to all of the lines, patterns, and markings on a mandala and many psychologist, including Carl Jung have studied the sacred meaning and heling potential of Manalas. It is believed that when you crate, color, or look at a Mandala that you are silently programming the mind to take on the essence of oneness or completion. Meditation upon the center of the Mandala is also believed to help you enter into the rich symbolism of the artwork and decode the messages that you need to take away from the Mandala.
The point of meditating with mandala art and coloring or creating mandalas is to clear the mind by forcing it to focus on the mandala design. It is sort of like distracting yourself from everyday distractions. Concentrate on the design to quiet the mind. If you begin to get distracted, thinking about what else you need to do, simply focus on the mandala until you quiet your mind completely.
Drawing your won mandala design from scratch is the most therapeutic way to use mandala. While you are drawing and coloring your mandala patterns, you will find yourself drawn in and highly focused. After you finish, you will be surprised to find that you feel less stressed and more in control. This is achieved naturally, without you having to actually concentrate on the stress release or emotional healing exercise. You may even experience one of those wonderful “Ah-hah” moments when something you’ve been struggling with is suddenly crystal clear and thins just begin to fall into place.
Way of using Mandala for Healing.
- Mandala Meditation.
Choose a Mandala that appeals to you. You may find it easier to select a Mandala if you take a moment to set your intention for your healing first. Once you have chosen your Mandala begins by focusing on the center of the circle. It is through this point that you can ‘enter’ the Mandala and journey though the symbolism.
- Creating a Mandala.
Creating your own Mandala can be a very healing experience. Use your intuition to guide you as to what medium you want to use for your Mandala. Some suggestions include-sand, watercolor, crayons, pastels, pencils, paint, flowers, leaves, rocks, gems, etc. Set your intention for your Mandala and what type of healing you want to evoke. Perhaps spend a few minutes meditating upon your intention.
- Coloring a Mandala
There are some beautiful Mandala sketches a available for download or for purchasing online. Think about your intention and then choose a Mandala accordingly. Once you have your Mandala, select the color theme. Allow your intuition to guide you. Perhaps also think about the spiritual significance of colors in your life, in nature and in the chakras. Take a moment to clear your mind and honor your intention. Begin coloring your Mandala, using whatever medium you desire such as paints, crayons, watercolors, etc. Focus on your intention and remain open to the healing you may receive.