Mandala is a Sanskrit word that loosely translates to mean
“circle” or “center.”
We often associate the word mandala with the circular designs
that have repeating colors, shapes, and patterns radiating from the center.
Mandalas can be precise, carefully measured, geometric, and perfectly
symmetrical, or in contrast, free flowing, organic, and asymmetrical.
Mandalas are often drawn in circles but they can also be drawn in squares.
Intricate geometric compositions created on a base of a circle,
known as mandalas, have a deep spiritual meaning in Hinduism and Buddhism. They
represent the whole of the universe, and they can be used as an exercise or for
meditation.
I read somewhere that drawing Mandalas (basically, geometric
patterned shapes/designs) could be a good way of coping with stress and
anxiety. Having a bit of a creative bent, I thought I’d give it a try. A little
art therapy is good for anybody, right? So I did checked some designs on the
Internet and took to doodling mandalas most often when I was watching T.V or
doing some other mindless task that had me sitting down.
Initially it looked very difficult to create this art, but
once I sat to create it, found it very interesting and intriguing.
I
had mixed results with this activity. On one hand, I think it can be useful to
get your mind off things because you’re focused on creating your pattern. It
gives you something neutral to concentrate on. This is handy if you’re feeling
a bit anxious! Relieves stress, one can go on and on meditatively. On the other hand, I’m not sure it’s a
great task as after creating 2-3 Mandalas I realised that I am creating almost
the same types of Mandala over and again with little variation. But realised I
need to try more variations, types, styles colouring etc. Colouring is also pretty popular these days
as a way of dealing with stress and anxiety; maybe I should target that for
next time.
Most
important thing is not to finish the task but to enjoy while creating it. But
those who enjoy it go into meditative state of mind.
One
can download Mandala Templates and can colour them. Sharing with you some
beautiful sites / blogs from where you can download the templates.
|
Mandala - 1st |
|
Mandala - 2nd
|
|
Mandala - 3rd
Created these Mandala to begin with. Will come with some more.
Happy Doodling!!!
|