A mandala is a spiritual and ritual symbol
common in Hinduism and Buddhism, representing
the universe.
In common use, "mandala" has become a generic
term for any diagram, chart or geometric pattern
that represents the cosmos metaphysically
or symbolically; a microcosm of the universe.
As a meditation on impermanence, after days
or weeks of creating the intricate pattern
of a sand mandala, the buddhist monks brush
the sand together into a pile and spill it
into a body of running water to spread the
blessings of the mandala.
We owe the re-introduction of mandalas into
modern Western thought to Carl Jung.
In his exploration of the unconscious through
his own art making, Jung observed the motif
of the circle spontaneously appearing.
The circle drawings reflected his inner state
at that moment.
Jung recognized that the urge to make a mandala
emerges during moments of intense personal
growth.
Their appearance indicates a profound re-balancing
process is underway in the psyche.
The result of the process is a more complex
and better integrated personality.
Creating mandalas helps stabilize and re-order
inner life.
