** For those who haven’t drank the coloring-book Kool-Aid, let’s see if understanding the true purpose behind it sparks your interest.
As comparable to many American activities that have been adapted from other cultures, a significant portion of the activity has been lost, thus changing the true intent behind it. It is so often that I hear of Mandala pages being posted on walls as beautiful trophies to display the energy and time spent into the project. In this, I can understand the intrinsic nature to hold tightly onto something that provides you a sense of accomplishment and pride.
In contrast to the Americanized display of art, Tibetan monks routinely deconstruct every breath-taking and ornate Mandala they spend days/ weeks/ months creating. WHY?! I am immediately questioned by clients who are shocked by my explanation of this part of the ancient practice. Well, we are not supposed to be dependent on our physical creations and material objects for our sense of fulfillment and pride. The traditional deconstruction of each Mandala symbolizes the impermanent nature of existence in this physical world that we thrive and survive in.
Mandala Challenge
Good luck in your practice and thanks for joining me on this journey of comparison, history and focus on self-awareness!
Resource on Mandalas
dr. stephanie p. bathurst, ph.d, lcmft
Board Certified Clinical Sexologist
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist