A Mandala

A Mandala is sometimes referred to as a magic circle and the special domain of any particular divinity. The centre point represents immanent spirit or point of potentiality, and contained within the circle can be several geometric shapes or yantra that represent the function of the mandala. A mandala can express the artistic nature of its creator, and can be personal, or highly symbolic; its symbols purporting to transcend time and space, so that the meditator is guided toward universal principles.

A circle helps to focus the mind on the content within it, and the forms, or geometrical designs (yantra) within it, represent a way of looking at reality. These can be simple or complex such as squares, triangles or combinations such as the Sri Yantra, Hexagon and Zodiacal Yantra. Every part is symbolic, such as horizontal lines representing, in essence, female; and vertical lines male. The synthesis of the whole shows the unifying nature of Yoga and can help integrate a body of thought within the psyche of the Yogi

A living mandala can be three dimensional, and held within the imagination; serving as an inner guide and reference point. It does not have to be static and can evolve and change serving and freeing those who meditate, as infinity lies beyond the wheel of life. A mandala transcends the limitations of that contained within it, and if we represent the three parts of man, Head, Heart and Will, at another level it can represent the three aspects of the Trinity, whether Hindu or Christian.

A mandala is more than the domain of a group of dry bone symbols; but rather represents a synthesis of profound levels of spiritual realisation and work done. The beginner may have to rely upon their Guru or teacher to help build a sound logical structure. But the student can make a start by calling to mind any positive experience, such as a favourite location, or positive memory, such as a place of beauty, when the air was clear and the early Sun gave rise to a feeling of hope for the new day.

The way we think, affects the way we feel and this can affect our actions. A positive visualisation creates good body chemistry, and lifts the spirits. Such memories in the form of an inner mandala can guide the energy of the yoga posture; re-energise and harness body energy in a positive and creative way. Meditation can help complete this process and eventually help to transcend the limitations of the mandala, until echoing the words of Shakespeare’s Hamlet; “O God. I could be bounded in a nutshell, and count myself a King of boundless space.

These suggestions are simply a guide, and point to the versatility of Mandala and Yantra. Both represent Love and Truth working together; Love evolves from centre; energising and making real the Truth that is within it. Both exist within ourselves and give both power and form to the chakras. Love works to develop the full potentiality of a being (Eugene Halliday); and Truth the Law of Being gives it form and structure.

This divine marriage between Love and Truth, however we express it, when fully realised, releases a subtle honey, or ambrosia, that transforms the inner experience, refines the energy centres (chakras), and prepares the body for its onward spiritual journey.