Sacred Geometry. Mandala

    

 

 The concept of a Mandala is extremely complex to do justice to with only a simple explanation. Psychoanalyst Carl Jung has referred to them as representations of the unconscious self and believed his spontaneous drawings and paintings of Sacred Geometry, Mandalas, enabled him to identify emotional disorders and work towards wholeness in personality.

   A Mandala (Sanskrit maṇḍala - "completion") refers to wholeness created by circular forms as a symbol of cosmic self-discovery. Geometry (Greek geometron - 'art of measurement') was traditionally restricted to the priesthood. Regardless, Johannes Kepler, the 17th-century German astronomer, was convinced "that all geometrical things have provided the Creator with the model for decorating (Latin decus "honor") the whole world."

  The experimental study by Nancy A. Curry, BA & Tim Kasser, PhD, suggests that structured coloring of a reasonably complex geometric pattern may induce a meditative state that benefits individuals suffering from anxiety. Other spontaneous drawing studies show that creative activities trigger the release of dopamine. Increased levels of this feel-good neurotransmitter are very beneficial if we are battling mood disorders or depression. These definitions are correct as far as they go, but they are not precise enough to understand what a Mandala truly is. To understand that clearly, we must create it ourselves!

   When you start to create the Mandala, sit comfortably, relax, and slow the breath. Focus on the Mandala's center for a while. It’s not necessary to have a disorder or depression to benefit from it; we all want to improve how we feel about ourselves. Do not hurry! Rushing through the creation can diminish both the quality of meditation and the experience itself. If distractions occur, close your eyes, take a deep breath, and return attention to drawing. If you see that colors and shapes intermesh and start to “dance“, please understand this is normal as well... The exercise should leave you relaxed and with a clear mind. You will become more energetic, less reactive, and better at controlling your life. You can also do this daily as your concentrative meditation. 

The Iconography of the Primary Mandala’s Basic Construction 

(from the inside outward)

It is based on Cosmology and Expressive Arts Counseling approaches, and it serves as a philosophical guide when we are seeking advice.

1. Circles in the middle of the Mandala.

-      The First (black) circle. This circle symbolises the Divine Force (or Spirit). We cannot comprehend It; we cannot speak of It; we cannot fathom IT. Our mind is finite and cannot approach the infinite. So, meditate on this circle and listen to the spiritual guidance of Mandala. Communicate with Divine Consciousness through intuition, inspiration, and deeper insights, connecting mind to a broader reality. Our Soul, as a Spark of IT, will provide direction when life feels uncertain or overwhelming.

-      The Second (red) circle. 

 This is the sphere of Actual Reality where the symbols are located (their description are on the chart on the right). It creates perceptions of Reality in the Game. It can help us better understand duality, temporality, and the truth about ourselves, as well as many other constantly evolving experiences and attitudes over time as we mature.

2. Entrance Gates (usually it is a square surrounding the two central discs).

 The four corners of the square symbolize our decision-making and our free will. Many spiritual traditions view self-determination as central to our Souls. Our mind usually faces decisions (for example, now we are trying to decide what to do with this information: to embrace it or reject it...).

3. Lotus Flower (eight-petaled).

   An eight-petaled Lotus typically forms the foundation and inner layers. It symbolizes cosmic harmony and spiritual rebirth. Each petal is a path to purity and rising above worldly attachment. It also represents the flow of cosmic energy through our body's "channel wheels" (chakras). It supports the Mandala in the journey from material darkness to Divine, enlightened consciousness.

  The Lotus Head is the Vajra (Sanskrit "diamond", "spiritual power"). Vajra refers to the " Lord of Stones", which is equivalent to the hardness and the radiance of the Diamond. It represents enlightenment and the indestructible state of our "alert mind", the "Vajra Mind". It has been associated with the work of the highly esteemed Elder-Teacher, known as "Glass Mirror",  a Teacher who helps us define our "Real-Self" because we can't look into our own eyes without a mirror... The Vajra often appears as outer protective circles (the Vajra Wheel), crossed beneath main structures for stability.

4. Flame Circles (additional circles of Mandala).

   If the Vajra is not enough, the "flame circles" keep all negative forces far from the inside of the Mandala, so we can gain deep insight into reality or become self-aware (Sanskrit buddhah "awakened"). 

  If we want to add colors to our Mandala, use the color chart on this page to select colors that harmonize with each other.

 Again, Sacred Geometry drawings are a powerful tool to expand our consciousness, improve brain function, strengthen the immune system, increase longevity, and improve overall physical and mental health. 

Controlled contemplation on it is an effective way to calm our nervous system when we are upset. On the other hand, forceful negative thoughts can sometimes increase tension.  So, do not recommend working on the Mandala when we wish to harm others; it brings only negative consequences and fills us with negative energy.

 

Yours faithfully,

Irmina