How Mandala Art Can Help Cancer Patients

Drawing and coloring a mandala is now a form of art therapy and meditation that has been shown to help fight stress, anxiety and more. It is important to learn the meaning of Mandala.

What is a Mandala?

Mandala means "sacred circle." It is derived from the word mandra, which means "a container of essence or instrument of thought." Mandala is far more than the shape of a circle. The mandala symbolizes in art, the traditions of every culture in every time in history.

The mandala appears in all aspects of life: the celestial circles we call sun, moon and Earth as well as family, friends and community. Once you choose the mandala, start your focus on the center of circle (mandala).

Mandala Art Therapy

I found mandala art therapy to be a very powerful tool for coping when my husband lost his battle with cancer. Mandala therapy is a healing art in recovery. It is proving to be more and more effective every day with patients and caregivers fighting cancer. It offers comfort and hope. It nurtures the spirit and helps patients and caregivers to have the strength to cope with pain, fear, emotions and unsettling feelings.

Creating or coloring mandalas has a calming effect on both the mind and body. It is safe, creative and a therapeutic process that helps create feelings of being centered and at peace. Creative art therapies have been in practice since the 1930s and include drawing, painting, sculpting and music.

Remember mandala art therapy doesn’t expect perfection. You don't have to be an artist! Everyone has feelings and emotions that allow us to be creative. Creativity is the result of the play in our consciousness. When we struggle to express or deal with difficult emotions, mandala therapy can help calm the mind and body.

All you need is paper and colored pencils (or watercolors) to begin and allow your inner thoughts and concerns to be calmed by mandala therapy.