Use of the Mandala
In Eastern traditions Mandalas are round or sometimes square and two-dimensional. Jungians usually see Mandalas as round and two-dimensional. There are two basic uses for Mandalas: They can be used as a focus for meditation or they can be used as a way of getting to know your self better. In the first case the stress is on the use of the finished Mandala, in the second the making of the Mandala is the most important. Of course you can use a Mandala made for self-exploration as an object for meditation, and vice versa, A Mandala meditation can be a kind of self-exploration.In general, the art, symbols, and color of a Mandala will guide an individual from the distractions of the mind, the outer rim of the Mandala to a still center, the center of the Mandala. The Mandala you use usually has a special significance for you. This makes it a potent tool. In times of stress, you can use your Mandala as a reality anchor. Whenever you feel that you are loosing grip, you simply visualize your Mandala and concentrate on it. Choose a soothing but well-defined Mandala for this purpose. Whichever definition of Mandalas you subscribe to, they're supposed to be good for you. Many people say that they feel better whether they use it for self-exploration or as an object for meditation. A circular design seems to be particularly beneficial. There is great variety of patterns to explore. For someone new to Mandalas, it is probably best to choose something simple, and increase the complexity later on. Try the wired mandala toy for everyday use or for your children to improve skills and creativity.
