08/10/2019
Today's session was all about mandalas...Creating mandalas is an activity I like to use with my clients when they need help with
learning how to relax and bring a sense of calm into their lives. As you can imagine, with
modern-day pressures, learning to be able to do this effectively, is quite a skill in itself!
It’s also a great tool for emotional expression, and as a tool for self-soothing.
There is a therapeutic and symbolic nature attached to creating mandalas. The use of
circles provide a sense of center as well as containment for the client, and this helps to
naturally lower anxiety levels.
For some people, the very prospect of being presented with a blank piece of paper can on
its own create anxiety. We are automatically programmed to think and feel, that we
“ought” to produce something reminiscent of a masterpiece. Before we’ve even begun, we
are judging the end result and place unrealistic expectations on ourselves.
For that reason, it can be helpful to start the exercise with a preprinted template of a circle.
The circle, whilst reminding you this isn’t a typical drawing, will also provide the client with
a starting point.
Having a starting point is incredibly effective in helping to build a client’s confidence from a
“safe” place. When a client is in an emotionally “safe” place, they will be less likely to
judge themselves and feel much more comfortable about the creative process.
As with anything in life, when one is in a place of comfort and safety we are without
feelings of vulnerability or uncertainty, and it’s here we are given the freedom to use our
metaphoric wings and flourish.
Some of my clients create a mandala every day, as a way of increasing self-awareness and
as a mindfulness practice. Everybody can benefit from simply coloring a mandala. This is
enjoyed by adults, children and in group situations and other therapeutic settings.
When working with clients, I encourage them to let their instinct and feelings, inspire and
guide them through the process of creation. The shapes and colors used in making the mandala are a reflection of their inner self, at that very moment in time. This means that
whatever they’re feeling at that time, will be represented in the mandala.
As with many (if not all) art therapy activities, the end result isn’t the goal, but rather the
journey. The final product is more of a snapshot in time, representing something
meaningful and personal.