There are many ways to meditate, and one powerful method is to use a mandala. It serves as a tool to calm the mind, strengthen concentration and allow a deeper connection to oneself. In this article, I will show you how to use a mandala for your meditation practice to find harmony and inner peace.

Why use a mandala for meditation?

Symbolically, a mandala has a strong meaning. It represents the cycle of life, the universe and unity. The symmetrical circular shapes have a calming effect on the mind and help sharpen focus. Mandalas are ideal for deepening the meditative state because they draw attention to a central point and liberate us from external distractions.

Step-by-step guide: meditation with a mandala

1. Select your mandala

• Find a mandala that appeals to you. Pay attention to the colours and patterns, they should give you a sense of calm and harmony. You can choose a mandala that has a special meaning for you, or just one that appeals to you visually.
• Ideally, choose a physical mandala art piece to place nearby or hang on your wall. This creates a deeper, physical connection. Alternatively, use a printed mandala to place on your desk or near your meditation spot.

2. Create a calm environment

• Look for a quiet place where you won't be disturbed. Dim the lights, light a candle, or play some soft music if you like.
• Make yourself comfortable, either sitting or lying down. An upright position promotes alertness, while a relaxed sitting position helps the meditation to flow.

3. Focus on your breathing

• Breathe in and out deeply and calmly. Close your eyes briefly to relax your body, then open them again. Feel how your body and mind relax with each breath.
• Inhale and exhale consciously while looking at the mandala to centre yourself and establish the connection between you and the mandala.

4. Begin to meditate on the Mandala

• Position your mandala in your field of vision so that you can comfortably look at it. Your gaze should be calm and relaxed, without effort.
• Start by following the central point of the mandala with your eyes. Let your gaze wander outwards from this point, following the symmetrical shapes.
• Keep returning your gaze to the centre, just as the energy of the mandala itself flows back to the source again and again. This helps to focus the mind and keeps your thoughts from wandering.

5. Let your attention sink into the mandala

• Let your eyes slowly move from the centre to the outside, observing the patterns, colours and details. Allow each individual element of the mandala to enter your mind without judging or analysing.
• As thoughts emerge, gently allow them to pass without engaging with them. Gently return your gaze to the centre.

6. Deepen your experience

• Observe how your gaze gently glides from one pattern to the next. Try to consciously perceive the contours and details without hurrying. The rhythm of your breathing and the slow movement of your gaze create a meditative trance.
• Whenever you notice your thoughts wandering, gently bring your attention back to the mandala. Each time you return your gaze to the centre, you focus more on the moment and strengthen your meditative state.

7. Repeat a calming affirmation (optional)

• A helpful technique is to repeat a calming word or affirmation to yourself in your mind, such as ‘peace’, ‘harmony’ or ‘I am in harmony’. Repeat it at your own pace while looking at the mandala.
• Let the words resonate in your mind without forcing them. Feel the connection between the visualisation of the mandala and the soothing words.

8. Consciously finish the meditation

• Once you feel that the meditation is coming to an end, close your eyes for a moment. Reflect on what you have experienced. Pay attention to your breathing and the state of your mind.
• Slowly open your eyes, take a moment to savour the calm and clarity, and then come back to your daily routine.

Advice for regular practice

By meditating regularly with mandalas, you will notice how your mind becomes increasingly calm and focused. You can do the meditation daily or whenever you feel you need to rediscover your inner balance. By repeating the practice, you can experience the profound effect of mandalas on your mental and emotional well-being.

Meditating with mandalas is a powerful method for developing mindfulness, calming the mind and connecting more deeply with yourself. Regularly contemplating and immersing yourself in the harmonious patterns of a mandala not only promotes concentration, but also inner peace.

Feel free to browse my shop or visit one of my workshops if you want to discover a mandala to accompany you on your meditative journey. I look forward to supporting you on this journey!