During these first nine months of the year, I have been enjoying quilting Mandala designs…..
but I have also wondered more about Mandalas.
The word “mandala” comes from Sanskrit, meaning circle. It symbolizes the universe in Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
When we were in Kathmandu back in 2015, we visited a Mandala studio and watched the process as these artisans created amazing Mandalas, from the initial drawing…..
……and then painting…..
In Nepal, Mandalas are central to various Buddhist practices. They are used as tools for meditation, aiding in focusing the mind and embodying the principles of the universe.
Some Buddhist monks create intricate mandalas using colored sand. After they are completed, they are destroyed to symbolize the impermanence of all things.
Interestingly, I also found that indigenous people in North America (such as the Navajo) use sand mandalas in healing ceremonies. These mandalas are believed to restore balance and harmony.
Today, we know that mandalas are used in art therapy and are popular in coloring books for their calming and meditative qualities.
So why do I make mandalas??