What is a mandala?

The origin of mandalas comes from eastern traditions where the mandala almost always had four sides or entrances. Traditional mandalas often include an inside and outside. This represents the universe as well as the interior of one’s mind. Both the drawing and viewing of mandalas is part of meditation practice.

Examples of mandalas can be seen all over the earth. They are created by cultures independently across the globe all with their own words for what we now call a ‘mandala’. You could say that mandala making is a natural human activity.

Examples from Around the World

However, mandalas are by no means only from the east. Cultures all over the world have made mandala art and land markings for thousands of years. So, although the mandala definition and origin comes from a Sanskrit word for this type of art, not all mandalas represent the same philosophies. Today there is a blooming interest in mandala making. Just take a look at Instagram or Etsy—many folks from all over the world draw and share their finished mandalas with others.

Mandala’s Calming Effects

Gazing into a mandala can help calm the mind and enter into a mold of focus and clarity. Perhaps it is the repetitive nature that reassures the mind that all is well. Like the changing of the seasons, both mandalas and life are cyclical.

On our online shop we offer many mandalas by the artist, Uritan, who has been drawing mandalas for over a decade. Originally, he was inspired by the nature of his home continent South America. Uritan only learned of the eastern tradition after he had been drawing them for several years.

Examples

In Peru near the iconic Machu Pichu is another, less famous ruin called “Moray”. It has three convex structures of repeating circles, each one a layer deeper into the earth. The intent of Incas who designed and constructed this site is unknown. However there have been many guesses, one of which is a mandalic garden.

In nature fractals, natural mandalas, can been seen everywhere. Take this Passion Flower, a common example of a naturally occurring mandala. A truly stunning flower that inspires awe in so many who come across it.

Now that you know a little more about mandalas, you will surely see them more often in daily life. If you would like one to decorate your home or work area, Staccarto offers a variety to choose from in our online store.