If you are looking for therapeutic art ideas for your art class, perhaps consider mandala drawings. Mandalas have been around for centuries and are still popular today. Making a mandala for peace is commonly used in the therapeutic art space and as a meditation practice. Creating mandalas is a form of intuitive art-making and it is an art projects for stress relief. It assists in calming the body and mind while increasing concentration and focus. Drawing mandalas in an art lesson is a wonderful way to make space for students to create something that is not assessed or judged but rather for mental wellbeing and enjoyment. The Benefits of drawing for mental health is profound and a great way to use art for mindfulness.
Here are 10 reasons why everyone should draw a Mandala for peace and relaxation
Meditative Focus:
Engaging in the repetitive and intricate process of drawing mandalas can help focus the mind, leading to a meditative state.
Mindfulness Practice:
Drawing mandalas encourages being present in the moment, fostering mindfulness and reducing stress.
Creative Expression:
Mandala drawing allows for creative expression without the pressure of creating a realistic representation and in doing so mandala drawings promotes relaxation through artistic freedom.
Sense of Achievement:
Completing a mandala, especially complex ones, provides a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, boosting mood and relaxation.
Therapeutic Release:
The rhythmic motion of drawing and the act of creating something beautiful can serve as a therapeutic release for pent-up emotions and tension. Drawing a mandala for peace is a valuable therapeutic tool.
Mandala for anxiety and Stress Reduction:
Engaging in mandala drawing can lower cortisol levels, the stress hormone and because of this it can lead to a more relaxed state of being.
Balancing Energy:
Mandalas are often associated with balancing energy and restoring harmony, contributing to a sense of calm and relaxation.
Artistic Flow:
Immersing oneself in the creative process of drawing mandalas can induce a state of flow, where time seems to disappear so that one can experience relaxation and enjoyment.
Symbolic Meaning:
Many find comfort in the symbolic meaning of mandalas because on its circular shape, the meaning of a mandala can represent unity, wholeness, and interconnectedness, which can evoke a sense of peace and relaxation.
Cathartic Release:
The act of drawing mandalas can serve as a cathartic release, allowing individuals to let go of worries and tensions, promoting relaxation and mental clarity.
Because of these reasons collectively contribute to why drawing mandalas can be such a relaxing and rewarding activity.
How to make a mandala step by step
- To create a mandala, start with drawing a circle on your drawing paper. You can draw it with a compass or freehand. For those that wish to draw with more freedom, a simple circle is enough of a guide to draw a range of repetitive patterns and lines within it.
2. For those that wish for further guideline, the layers of patterns begin on a series of circles from the smallest, in the centre, to the largest on the outside of the mandala. Drawing horizontal, vertical and diagonal lines form further guidelines should the students need the support.
3. Finally, should this still feel intimidating, create a few repetitive bold shapes in which to guide students further.
Once the basic template is done, simple create patterns and lines in different colours. There is no right and wrong way to do it, using patterns and colours that speak to you, relax and enjoys. Creating a different pattern around each circle will assist in understanding shape, line and a beautifully rich design that the students love and are often proud of.
If you are looking for a blank mandala template printable pdf click on the image below.
This mandala basics pdf is the perfect first step to get started creating your own mandala.
This mandala template pdf includes three basic templates to guide students in their mandala drawing. The templates provide simple guidelines for the more confident and older students. Basic pattern creation has been added to the templates because the younger students may require extra support. These mandala art ideas are a wonderful addition to your art class and it is a perfect early finisher activity.
Mandala theme ideas
Consider introducing the following themes to expand on the basic mandala drawing so that students can get the full benefit from mandala creation. These are great therapeutic activity ideas which can include the meaning of colour and line and how they represent ones emotions and feelings:
- How to draw a mandala pattern
- Mandala for healing
- Mandala for strength
- Mandala for health
- Mandala for anxiety
- Mandala for relaxation
Colouring in a Mandala
If drawing a mandala seems too overwhelming because of the time you have available with your student or perhaps you would like to introduce mandala designs before creating them, have a look at this. This Mandala colouring in pdf is a wonderful mandala printable mindfulness colouring activity. It is simple and relaxing.
Here are somer creative ways to create mandalas for peace, consider the following:
- Rock mandala
- Nature mandala
- Collage mandala
- Affirmation mandala
- Grounding mandala
- Goal setting mandala
- Intuitive mandala
- Self -care
Conclusion
In conclusion, incorporating mandala for peace drawing as an art therapy exercise into the classroom environment offers numerous benefits for both students’ mental well-being and artistic expression. From providing a meditative focus to fostering mindfulness and reducing stress, the act of creating mandalas offers a therapeutic outlet for individuals of all ages. Moreover, mandalas symbolise unity, wholeness, and interconnectedness, evoking a sense of peace and relaxation. By encouraging students to engage in mandala for peace drawing, educators not only promote artistic creativity but also facilitate a journey towards inner calmness and self-discovery. With step-by-step guidance and a variety of themes to explore, mandala drawing becomes an accessible and enjoyable activity that enhances mental health and enriches the classroom experience.
Because of the therapeutic benefits of mandala drawing, I began researching more about art as a therapeutic practice. I wrote a blog introducing therapeutic art activities in the art-room so if you are looking for more ideas on introducing therapeutic art into the classroom click here.
