“Nesting”
“Nesting - created July 30th, 2021
THE MANDALA PROJECT - How it came to life
If you know someone whose day would be brightened by this Mandala, please pass it along! Even more magical, with a love note from you!
The Mandala Project: #49
Intentional symmetry is a design principal I rarely lean toward when creating mandalas, in part due to the particular material challenge it presents (lots of matching stuff required), and also because it feels a little too engineered. Not quite wild enough.
That said it’s a fun approach to play with once in a while, and this one had a surprise twist. A nest was not what I had in mind when I was assembling its colourful elements together on a bed of soft greenery, but when I set the image in the top of the blog post and listened for its name to come in, I felt many of the qualities that we humans seek when we “nest”.
There is a sacred element to the act of nesting, a call and response between creature and surroundings.
It’s a deeply instinctive and universal behavior that honours a primal need to create a nurturing environment for oneself or one's offspring. And when the making is imbued with great care, it evokes a sense of unquestionable welcome.
Why Humans Nest
Human nesting goes beyond mere physical shelter, it encompasses the art and practice of creating a personal haven, a sanctuary that reflects our unique identity and provides comfort and solace.
Nesting is an expression of our creativity and desire for beauty. When we thoughtfully arrange furniture, decor, and personal belongings, we’re creating a space that feels like home. From carefully selected colors and textures to the thoughtful placement of cherished mementos, we are seeking to evoke warmth, security, and a connection to our innermost selves. We’re engaged in a process of curating our surroundings to promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and a deep-rooted sense of belonging.
Deepening the Practice
Your home is not just a haven, it has a deep impact on your mood and productivity. Organizing, simplifying and intentionally arranging your living space minimizes stress and frees up mental space, leading to improved sleep, reduced anxiety and room for your energy to both rest and move with ease.
In a world that celebrates constant productivity and achievement, taking the time to nest reminds us of the importance of finding joy in relationship with our surroundings. By consciously investing in our living spaces, we cultivate an attitude of self-love and self-respect which spills over into other aspects of our lives.
Nesting is an intimate act of self-care, a tangible manifestation of our deep-seated need for safety, comfort and a place in this vast world we can call our own.
Mandala #49 location: This mandala was built on a tiny oasis of thriving greenery surrounded by a large stretch of dry and rocky ground.
“Flow” - The Mandala Project: #55
Flow is what you feel when you’re holding a stable, steady centre while the currents of the universe are swirling around you with infinite possibilities of disruption.