The practice of creating the mandala itself can aid relaxation and be meditative, but also once created they can be used as a focal point during yoga, meditation, or even just as a 5 minute time out.
Ancient Hindu scriptures depict mandalas as a period of creativity, of powerful existence, and a symbol of deeper connection with the self and the universe. In modern day, mandalas have become a popular symbol of meditation, which aids in enhancing focus, silencing thoughts while meditating, combatting stress and anxiety, appreciating the beauty of nature, and forming a greater connection with oneself.
I did the following activity with my family (whilst social distancing of course!) - Everyone came away feeling relaxed but also proud of the work they'd created which in itself releases endorphins.
What you'll need:
Acrylic paints / Poster paints - these don't have to be high quality, the cheaper more fluid one's actually work best for this!
Paper
Anything with a rounded end - I used makeup brushes, hair grips, the other end of paint brushes, cotton buds.
A nice beverage - wine recommended :)
How to:
1. Firstly, decide what you'd feel most comfortable doing. If you think you'd get too worked up trying to come up with a mandala pattern yourself then please feel free to print my templates below. If you fancy coming up with your own then go for it! I've included a guide to use in the download below as well.
2. If you're using a printed template then place this under a piece of plain white paper. You should be able to see the black dots through to use as a guide.
3. Turn your phone off, get rid of any distractions, pop some chilled music on, grab a cuppa or wine and just focus on creating your art.
4. Use the rounded ends of your makeup brushes or whatever you've gathered and dip it vertically into the acrylic paint, just enough to cover the end (don't shove the whole thing in) then start dotting! Start from the middle and work your way outwards.
5. After each circle / tool change / colour change make sure you wipe the end of your tool clean with a tissue or wet wipe. This will stop the paint sticking and stop your tool becoming non-rounded and non-pointed (= wonky mandala!)
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