Using Mandala's For Meditation

For some people learning meditation one of the most common problems is being unable to visualise. This will improve as you practice meditation more often. 
 If you really are struggling to visualise or perhaps your concentration wanders, try using a Mandala. The word Mandala in Sanskrit translates as "sacred circle" and that is pretty much what a Mandala is. It is widely used in Tibetan Buddhism. Mandala's will vary in appearance, they are often very colourful and will have very intricate details. They are quite rightly a work of art in their own form. 

Mandala's are very useful tools in directing your energy and attention. To use one for meditation first find one you really like or one that particularly fascinates you. 
Go to your usual place of meditation or somewhere you feel comfortable. Take a few deep cleansing breaths then allow your gaze to fall on your chosen mandala. Gradually focus your gaze on the centre of the mandala. What is depicted in the centre? What colour is it?

You will soon be aware of your attention wandering to different parts of the mandala, as you gaze over the different areas look at the symbols pictured, what do you think they mean? As your attention goes back to the centre notice the shape of the mandala and how all the parts flow, many people report that it reminds them of a beautiful flower. Keep focusing on the mandala, let it inspire you. As you once again focus on the centre feel yourself becoming a part of the mandala, as if you are connected to it, you are becoming one with it. 
When it no longer feels comfortable to look at close your eyes and see if you can visualise the mandala in your mind. What parts do you specifically remember? Do you think they have a significance to you? Allow the colours to fill your entire aura. Feel as though you are breathing in the colours. You can feel the power that you have created using nothing but your own mind. Stay in this place of comfort, inspiration and power for as long as you wish and then slowly bring your awarenesss back to the present. 

If you are particularly creative you could try to draw your own mandala. If that is a little bit too adventurous for you there is currently a trend for adult colouring books. There are a number of places currently selling Mandala colouring books, you could then choose a design you like and colour it yourself. Not only will you find this relaxing and therapeutic but by doing this you are putting your own energy and creativity into the mandala. Then you can gently cut it out, pop it into a punched pocket or laminate it and use it for your own meditation. 
The Works currently have some fantastic and inexpensive mandala colouring books available:
http://www.theworks.co.uk/p/crafting-books/the-meditation-colouring-book/9781784046323

http://www.theworks.co.uk/p/crafting-books/mandala-adult-colouring-book/9781784048495

Whichever way you choose have fun exploring your Mandala