How to Read a Mandala? A Symbolic and Intuitive Exploration

A mandala is not just a circular work of art. It is an inner map, a reflection of the soul, a tool for introspection and meditation. Learning to read it means entering a powerful symbolic language that speaks to us beyond words. But how do you approach it? Here are some keys to understanding and interpreting a mandala, whether for decoration, meditation, or self-discovery.

1. Understanding the Structure of a Mandala

Most mandalas follow a centered structure:

• A central point or core: represents the self, the center of consciousness.
• Symmetrical shapes radiating outward: they evoke movement, growth, and balance.
• Circles, squares, triangles, or lotus flowers: each shape carries its own symbolic meaning.

The movement from the center outward—or inward—symbolizes the inner journey, from consciousness to the world, or from chaos to unity.

2. Observing Shapes and Symbols

• The circle: unity, wholeness, continuity.
• The square: stability, foundation, earth.
• The triangle: transformation, energy, elevation.
• The lotus flower: purity, spiritual awakening.

The patterns can also represent natural elements (water, fire, air, earth), chakras, or cultural and spiritual symbols. Take the time to observe them one by one.

3. Interpreting the Colors

Colors carry specific emotions and energies:

• Blue: peace, calm, expression.
• Red: vitality, strength, grounding.
• Green: healing, growth, harmony.
• Purple: intuition, spirituality, transformation.
• Orange: joy, creativity, motivation.
• Black or gray: depth, introspection, mystery.

A mandala in neutral tones can encourage a more meditative and sober reading, while a colorful mandala can stimulate more dynamic awareness.

4. Feeling Rather Than Understanding

Reading a mandala is not purely an intellectual exercise. It is, above all, an inner feeling. What does it inspire in you? What emotions, thoughts, or sensations arise as you look at it?

Ask yourself:

• Where does my gaze land first?
• Which areas attract or disturb me?
• What reflection of myself can I see in this mandala?

It is often within this intuitive resonance that the mandala reveals its most powerful messages.

5. Using the Mandala as a Tool for Introspection

You can deepen your reading of a mandala through:

• Intuitive writing: jot down what you feel while looking at it.
• Meditation: focus on the center of the mandala for a few minutes.
• Drawing or coloring: another way to interact with the symbols.

Conclusion

Reading a mandala is reading yourself. It is not an exact science but a subtle dialogue between shapes, colors, and your inner world. Whether you use it for decoration, meditation, or self-discovery, the mandala offers you a mirror, a path, an energy.

The Sereinest Team

At Sereinest, every mandala on canvas or paper print is an invitation to contemplation. Take the time to look at it—and let it speak to you…