Mandala is a Sanskrit term believed to translate to "circle" in English. Mandalas have historically been used by Hindus and Buddhists as meditation aids. The inner circle is a reflection of the samsara, or the eternal cycle of life.

For Native Americans, the mandala is a sacred symbol. Shamans believe the center of the circle holds sacred healing power. In Christian and Islamic traditions, the circle can be found in divine symbols like the Celtic cross, the halo, and the dome.

In the Buddhist tradition, creating mandalas is a meditative exercise taking several days. The monks create them using sand and when completed they sweep the sand into the water demonstrating the impermanence of all things.

Coloring mandalas requires a degree of concentration that can help shift your attention away from yourself and relax the brain.

In a more recent study, researchers evaluated the effectiveness of coloring a complex geometric design, like a mandala, on reducing anxiety with a group of undergraduate students. The results showed a decrease in anxiety levels for the students and suggested the practice created a sort of meditative state that is beneficial for reducing anxiety.

More information about the effects of coloring mandalas can be found at:

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/3-reasons-adult-coloring-can-actually-relax-brain/