Mandala-The Easy and Creative Way to De-stress!
As the nation went into lockdown, the stress levels of many people went up high. Of course, no one likes being locked up inside four walls of the home and carrying on with the monotonous surroundings. For a lot of people, art came to the rescue as a channel to express and vent. Few had all the resources available and the others found their expressions through Mandala and Doodling.
Throwback to the times when we used to draw little things when bored or during a telephonic conversation. The pen near the telephone directory served a singular purpose- to draw inside the directory and the conversation flowed. Small flowers, little curves, henna designs and so many other things can be still found in those old telephone books we have. Today, they have emerged as new art forms, the patterns soothing the artist as well as the audience.
Mandala has its origins from the Sanskrit word ‘Mandala’, meaning circle. This is a geometrical figure involving intricate designs and was initially used in spiritual practices, representing cosmic relations majorly in Hinduism and Buddhism. The resources required for learning and drawing Mandalas are paper, a pen/pencil and a few colours.
Mandalas were originally seen in the religious practices but now it has started taking a modern touch. Today, they are a form of self-expression rather than just being reduced to spiritual symbols.
So, how exactly does drawing Mandalas help?
Mandala is a combination of geometric shapes, patterns and colours. It involves symmetry and symbols with healing properties. Here are a few reasons why drawing Mandala helps in soothing the human mind.
-They are a form of expression
As Mandala is a mix of patterns, they help in bringing out the deep hidden emotions and expressions of the person drawing them. Graphology (the science of analyzing handwriting) talks about the various patterns one draws and what they indicate. For example, if someone feels stuck, they can draw spirals which can inspire them to move!
Even the colours and combinations used in the drawing express a particular emotion and hence Mandalas are excellent art forms to express even if you are not a professional.
-Self rejuvenation and stress-relief
As one finds their self-expression through a Mandala, they find themselves in a better position for self-analysis and are able to express themselves better. Analyzing one’s self and understanding their thoughts motivates them to approach problems creatively and perhaps reduce overthinking and stress out of life.
-Mandalas induce a state of calm
Originally Mandalas were used in spiritual practices and meditation as they were useful in taking the body to a new consciousness. Just like meditations, Mandalas help the brain declutter thoughts through the newfound channel for self-expression. This in turn helps the person become emotionally strong, non-judgmental and remain calm during challenging situations.
Like meditation, creating Mandalas helps in staying calm and composed.
-Better Sleep
A well organized and calm mind sleeps peacefully! Looking at the intricate and tiny details on the Mandala pattern helps a person sleep better.
A few palaces and ancient architecture have patterns on their ceiling. Ever wondered why they are placed there? If you observe carefully, they are all Mandala patterns. The last thing a person looks at before sleeping is the ceiling and what better way to make a person fall asleep!
Mandalas are found everywhere in nature, from a flower to the milky way, all are repeating patterns adding symmetry and synergy to our lives and making our lives stress free.
Comment down about what your favourite Mandala pattern is or if you have ever tried creating your own Mandala art.
By
Shreya Marda
