When you go down to the woods today, Why not make a Nature Mandala?
I love the process of making a mandala using the abundance of natural materials supplied by Mother Nature. It reminds me of the sublime beauty that surrounds us in every moment, but which often goes unnoticed. By creating a piece of art out of nature, we are reminded of the inherent beauty in the seemingly mundane.
It is hugely rewarding as not only is it lots of fun to create, but benefits our wellbeing too. Creating a mandala is a meditative experience, which has the potential to facilitate healing on many levels. It helps us to let go, centre us in the present moment, to relax and connect with the earth and to natural rhythms.
“The symmetries, repetitions and contrasts of mandala patterns create a hypnotic effect that can cause positive changes in the rhythms of your brainwaves.” ~ Tenzin-Dolma
Below is a selection of some of nature mandala’s I have created over the years. They are often created as a celebratory ritual to mark each of the seasonal cycles, also known as The Wheel of the Year. I create each mindfully using only nature as my media. Whilst in a meditative state, I allow my intuition to guide the creative process, and simply allow the mandalas to arise naturally and spontaneously:
What is a Mandala?
Mandala is a Sanskrit word meaning ‘circle’, or ‘enclosure’. The circular shape signifies wholeness and infinity, and reminds of our relationship to the infinite.
Mandela’s are seen as a map of the cosmic representing the universe, and reflect the spiritual realm through geometrically organised shapes and numerology.
‘’A mandala is an integrated structure organized around a unifying center”
~ Longchenpa
The Mandala appears in many cultures throughout the world, and although they take different forms, they always have a deep spiritual connection. Impressive mandala art forms can be seen in Buddhist stupas to Isalmic mosques and Christian cathedrals, and also in indigenous cultures such as Native American medicine wheels and Aboriginal paintings.
Recognised for their healing properties, they act as a guide to deeper self-understanding and ultimate truth, providing a means to awaken a person’s spiritual energy and illuminate a path towards enlightenment.
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Resources:
Book; ‘Buddhist Inspiration’, Duncan Baird Pulishers
http://www.mandalaproject.org/What/Main.html
The Muse in the Mirror 
Reblogged this on The Muse in the Mirror.
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Beautiful work! Love your website.
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Thanks Michelle, I’m so pleased you like my mandalas and website. I can’t wait to make some more autumnal mandalas with the changing leaves soon! I love your work too, and how you also work with intention. It’s great to meet a fellow nature mandala and mindful artist! and good to see you selling yours, it inspires me to do so instead of just doing it for fun. x
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