I have always been attracted to the shapes of a kaleidoscope- the geometric patterning of brilliant mandalas and everything that feels like this bursting-with-life mandala shape.
Mandalas follow the patterns and geometric construction resonant with sacred geometry- the patterning of our actual physical cell structure that is the same as that of trees and leaves and flowers and organic materials of Nature.
Yes: we are very similar to Nature, even our bodies are resonant with forests and crystals. Reduce the world down to small enough pieces and you see that all is integrated and connected.
The mandala is a shape characterized by the ability to bring that connection to more vibrant life.
Carl Jung explored the mandala shapes he saw in dreams, recreating them and studying them as signs of personal growth and unification of the conscious and subconscious mind, a symbol of the total integration of the self. Art therapy uses mandalas for this purpose as well.
So, the gorgeous, meditative mandala can be a form of art-making entwined with self-discovery.
Here’s some mandala-making inspiration to craft your own mandala magic!
I grew up with croched mandalas everywhere- potholders and blankets full of them, everywhere! I even used to make mandalas, in a sense, when I would crochet as a kid. This crochet mandala DIY is uber fun and very fancy… even those it is quite easy.
Why not make an artful mandala out of doll-stuff?
Lately I have been fixated upon crystal grids, the intuitive mandalas made from gemstones placed in patterns that feel fantastic. You can make these with stones, with seashells, with flowers… and with crystals in every shape, size and color. No rules here- they just have to look at feel right to you!!!
Mandalas are often used in art therapy. While I unconsciously start to draw mandalas when I sit before a piece of paper, sometimes you need a bit of inspiration! THIS article in Psychology Today can guide you through making your first mandala:
“Try a circle about 10 inches in diameter, but you can use any size paper to make your drawing. White paper is fine, but also try a sheet of black paper, too. It will make the colors “pop” because of the darker background. Because mandala drawing can be a very relaxing and meditative experience, you might want to play some soft instrumental music to set the mood. If you commit to making mandala drawings over a period of weeks or months, you’ll also find that the content and style will change along with your personality, emotions, and experiences.
According to Jung, mandalas symbolize “a safe refuge of inner reconciliation and wholeness.” They have the potential to call forth something universal within, perhaps even the proverbial archetypal Self. And at the same time, they give us an experience of wholeness amid the chaos of every day life, making the “sacred circle” one of the very coolest art therapy interventions for both soothing the soul and meeting oneself.”
And, to bring it back home, you can always add a tapestry with mandala print to the back of a sofa, on a wall or in the yard for a Boho tent feeling!
Making art is very important. Harmonizing with the geometry that has organized our buzzing cells into Nature and humanity takes art to the next level. Why not play with mandalas? Breathe. Zone out as you create things. Feel mental freedom. Pluck some flowers or pick up a pencil and give your own designs a whirl…! xoxo Dana
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And, as always, please let me know what happens!
great article, love it!
Excellent text and incredibly beautiful photos. Superb color and creative solutions. 🙂
Thanks Dana! I am doing this with salads and fruit.
Hello Dana, you are awesomely cool and creative…!