What is a mandala?
People often ask me what a “mandala” is. The truth is that the word can mean many things to many people. For me, as an artist who channels and paints these beautiful images, they are an expression of Divine Love. They are powerful geometric designs that represent the magnificence and mystery of the entire universe, a universe mirrored within ourselves.
Following my recovery from M.E., Fibromyalgia and depression in 2010, using a self-healing technique, I was graced with a powerful spiritual awakening. From this moment on my life was never to be the same again.
I painted my first mandala in 2011, before I knew what a mandala was. I simply felt guided to dig out my artist’s materials that had been buried for years in the attic, and found myself painting images that came to me spontaneously from the spiritual realms. Before my amazed eyes, circles began forming on the canvas with beautiful images, colours and geometric shapes contained within them. Often, the energy I channelled into my art was so exquisite it moved me to tears. Only later would I discover what these powerful circles are called.
For centuries, the sacred geometry of mandalas has been used to create symbols for meditation, psychic protection and healing in many different cultures and religions – from Native American and Tibetan sand paintings, to Gothic rose windows and Hindu yantras.
The word “mandala” comes from the classical Indian language of Sanskrit, and means “circle.” And yet a mandala is far more than just a simple shape. It represents completeness, a model for the organized symphony of the miracle of life itself. It is a cosmic map that, when studied with an open heart and a clear mind, serves as a powerful reminder of our connection to the Infinite; a vastness that includes, and extends beyond, our bodies, hearts and minds.
Some of the most beautiful and yet profoundly simple mandalas can be found in nature, from the humble snail’s shell to the unfurling petals of a rose. Even the celestial spheres that we call the Sun, Moon and Earth are mandalas.
I stand in awe at the magnificent mystery of these wondrous natural works of art. They range from the delicate beauty of the human eyes, often called “the windows of the Soul,” to the vastness of our solar system. Each is complete in itself, while also being part of a greater whole.
Mandalas serve to remind us of our uniqueness, our sacredness, our connections to each other and to every living entity in the web of life. They can also provide us with a powerful portal to the Divine, beckoning us to be still and remember that everything we witness comes from the formlessness that we truly are.
I design and paint each one as an original piece of sacred art with its own unique energy signature. The blueprint often comes to me during deep meditation, but sometimes I just start with a blank canvas and paint whatever Spirit gives me in that moment. I start from the centre and work slowly outwards. This mirrors my own journey – of going within to find answers and the healing power of Love – which then ripples outwards into the rest of my life.
I work with my spirit guides when I am painting, who have the most amazing energies. They assist me with the stunning 3D effects and fine details of each mandala. I connect to Spirit using my metaphysical senses, in particular those of clairvoyance, clairsentience and claircognizance.
I see the designs first as images in my mind’s eye, and whilst painting I clearly feel my spirit guides surrounding me. I also feel a knowing within my heart when they are conversing with me, giving me messages of guidance and inspiration to channel a psychic reading, which I include with every finished mandala.
Meditating with mandalas:
A mandala can be a powerful vehicle or tool for meditation practice. They can lead to higher states of consciousness, often giving the meditator valuable insights into the deeper truths of the universe.
As you look upon the centre of a mandala, allow your gaze to soften, breathing deeply and evenly. Allow your body to relax and your mind to be still. Let your eyes take in the beauty of the design. Breathe and surrender, allowing the energy of the painting to take you on a spiritual journey.
Let the colours envelope you in their healing power and sheer vibrancy of light. Let the geometric shapes weave their dance before you, taking you out of your busy mind and deep into the Heart of creation. As you lose yourself in their energy, the pictures and symbols will whisper to you their story and share their innate wisdom.
You are becoming one with the mandala. There is no separation, no beginning or end to the Love contained within the art and the Love that You are. Relax and simply Be here, now.
Then, when you are ready, avert your gaze from the painting. Bring yourself back into the room where you are sitting, knowing you have been on a most sacred journey.
Welcome to the wonderful world of mandalas – welcome Home.
