The Autumn Spice Mandala

What exactly is a mandala, and why are they sooooo delicious to crochet?  According to Wikipedia, "a mandala...is a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, representing the universe. In common use, 'mandala' has become a generic term for any diagram, chart or geometric pattern that represents the cosmos metaphysically or symbolically; a microcosm of the universe."  

Apparently, many mandalas are circles represented symmetrically within a square, which makes me think of granny squares.  Are granny squares so relaxing to stitch because they are "a spiritual guidance tool, for establishing a sacred space, and as an aid to meditation and trance induction?" (Wikipedia)  Imagine yourself as a little ant crawling along the stitches from the outer edge inwards, each stitch linked to the next, everything formed from a  single thread that could be unwound with a tug.  I think that little ant would definitely find itself feeling meditative.

Maybe that's why I find these mandala patterns so enjoyable to crochet and to display around our home. Beginning in the center and growing outward, focusing on color and stitch, making sure the mathematics of the stitch counts match the geometry of the circle.  A meditative practice that often sets my mind free, an opportunity to observe my thoughts as they flow by like the thread.  If you'd like to try your hand at this pattern, it's the Autumn Spice Mandala that I first encountered on the Attic24 blog.  You can find the links here and here.

What is you favorite meditative activity?  Please share!

Lots of love,

~Mersydotes