It is a beauty isn’t it? What’s more is this intricate, colorful, vibrant craft is usually comprised entirely of either sand, rice, rocks, or other small, organic objects. Of course; the colors themselves (traditionally) are created with natural dyes, though in these modern times you lowly wretches will have to be sure to find organic, non-toxic dyes specifically. If you aren’t a dedicated, tedious soul; your options do include simply painting or drawing one of these babies; though, what would be the fun in that?
The Mandala had its start in the Hindu religion, then became a major fixture of Tibetan Buddhist monks. The famous Tibetan sand Mandala is a laborious endeavor meant to cultivate inner and outer harmony, the monks used it to symbolize their dedication to a life of contemplation as well as the impermanence of life itself. They are generally geometric in design, focused on a single point in the middle and radiating out in various patterns important to the individual or culture. They have spread around the world; being adopted by religions far and near.
Of course, you don’t actually have to be religious to engage in this craft. Make a Mandala of Micheal Jackson and Sandra Bullock having a perfectly geometrical picnic on planet Mars if you’d like. Something to do in-between herding your flocks of sheep and goats, at least? I say give Mandala a chance; free Nelson Mandala! Frankie says MANDALA! Don’t cry for me Mandala!
(Photo credits (in order of appearance: Ottawa Friends of Tibet, Henryart, Crazy Anonymous Christian Webmaster, Onmarkproductions.com, Grow-A-Brain)
