<p> Mandalas We often forget that we need a way to relieve stress—even young children. Coloring mandalas is the perfect way to help us relax, keep focus, and foster a love of art and creating. A mandala is a repetitive design within a circle. It can be a tool for meditation, therapy, or simply an activity to while away the time. Through free-flowing arrangements, mandalas have a calming effect upon even the most rambunctious child. The word "mandala" is from the classical Indian language of Sanskrit. Loosely translated to mean "circle," a mandala is far more than a simple shape. It represents wholeness, and can be seen as a model for the organizational structure of life itself--a cosmic diagram that reminds us of our relation to the infinite, the world that extends both beyond and within our bodies and minds. Describing both material and non-material realities, the mandala appears in all aspects of life: the celestial circles we call earth, sun, and moon, as well as conceptual circles of friends, family, and community. And after the mandala is completed, the finished work becomes an instrument for further reflection. It’s an ideal way to combine a love of coloring with some much-needed quiet time in our hectic world.</p><p>Making a Mandala</p><p> Put aside one hour and create a beautiful place to be alone, light a candle, put on some gentle music (instrumental preferred) and incense, and pour a lovely cup of your favorite hot beverage.</p><p> You will need colors of any sort — be it pencils, oil pastels, or paint. Mandalas can be made in many mediums — from paper cuttings to material. You will also need a large piece of paper.</p><p> Now take three deep breaths, and with each breath breathe in love and let go of any tension and fear — anything that has been bothering you. Let's set an intent for this mandala; you could have the intent "love" and what that means for you. If love doesn't work for you then find something that you want to work through or bring into your life.</p><p> I sometimes find it is easier for people who haven't experienced any creative processes to use their opposing hand when making the mandala. The reason being is it gets you in touch with the right side of the brain which is your intuitive, feeling side.</p><p> Now draw a large circle and focus on your intent and just start making marks. Try not to think too much and just allow the feelings to flow through onto the page.</p><p> Once you have finished your mandala, pick up a pen and write down the name of each color you have used and give that color a word. Examples: yellow is love, pink is joy, red is fire, blue is pain. The reason we do this is because each color means something different to the individual and can vary each day depending on the space you are in.</p>