Saturday April 13, 4 PM at the Warren Senior Center

Drawing and coloring mandalas are my absolute favorite ways lately of expressing creativity. It is said that connecting with creativity is a sure path to one’s soul, uncovering our unique essence, gifts, and passions. I was curious what it is about coloring or designing mandalas that stimulate this kind of vibration for me, and I learned that the act of creating a mandala is also believed to have strong spiritual power. In Sanskrit, mandala means “circle”—a sacred circle embodying a container for the essence within.  

In Buddhism, the mandala’s purpose is to help transform ordinary minds into enlightened ones, and to assist with healing. Mandalas generally have one identifiable center point, from which emanates an array of symbols, shapes, and forms. I was fascinated by videos of Buddhist monks spending days creating intricate mandalas, filling these shapes and symbols with colored sand, creating a fantastic work of art—only to sweep away the sand a few seconds after completion as a reminder of impermanence. Then they pour the sand along the riverbeds, sending gratitude and compassion into the universe. 

These colorful, intriguing works of art, stunningly beautiful and inspiring, hold deeper intentions. Monks often use mandalas as a meditation practice for healing and compassion. The repetition of patterns, colors, and shapes invite the practice of pure presence … nothing to do but stay in the moment, in the flow. Working with mandalas is a playful, creative, and inspiring way to practice self-discovery and mindfulness.

Lately, my passion for mandalas has evolved into using this meditative practice to focus on gratitude. Each time I create a new shape or form, I invite a thought of something I am grateful for. The layers of repetitive patterns and intricate details offer time for me to find a true connection to each blessing and gift.

When I offer gratitude mandala classes, I am often surprised by the pure joy that participants express when they spend time focusing on what is right about their lives, as opposed to what is wrong. Their shift in energy and thoughts toward an attitude of gratitude often helps them transform their greatest adversities into blessings.

This program is free! Sponsored by the Warren Public Library with a grant from the Warren Cultural Council, a local agency supported by the MA Cultural Council, a state agency.

Izzy Lenihan is a certified life, career, and wellness coach who has helped thousands of people make changes in all stages of their lives for more than 25 years. In addition to being part of the coaching faculty at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health and the Founder of Prescription for Life, she is a recognized inspirational speaker, workshop leader, and program director for businesses, organizations, and community integrative-health programs.