Color vibration: tools for harmonization and healing 
Mandalas and Mental Health: Reducing Everyday Stress 
Sleeping with the Flower of Life: study of the effects 
Wellness: A New Priority for Britons 
Seal of the 7 Archangels: divine protection Mandalas and Mental Health: Reducing Everyday Stress
Mental Health: A Societal Challenge
Mental health has become a public health priority in the United Kingdom and other countries. In recent years, the number of individuals affected by mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, has increased significantly. According to the Mental Health Foundation’s 2021 report, one in four people in the UK experiences a mental health problem each year. This prevalence is particularly high among young adults, with almost 30% of 18-24-year-olds reporting symptoms of depression or anxiety.
This growing trend is linked to socio-economic and environmental factors. Economic uncertainties, academic and professional pressures, and constant exposure to social media can increase stress and dissatisfaction, especially among young people. NHS Digital data from the Mental Health of Children and Young People in England survey indicates that mental health issues have been rising among young people, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The implications of mental health issues extend beyond individuals, affecting society as a whole. In 2020, the economic cost of mental health problems in the UK was estimated at approximately £117.9 billion per year, factoring in medical costs, productivity losses, and indirect impacts, according to the Centre for Mental Health.
In response, Public Health England has launched various campaigns to raise public awareness and increase access to mental health support, focusing on preventive measures and encouraging well-being practices.
Evolution of Depression Prevalence in the UK (2017-2021)
According to the Health Survey for England 2021, the prevalence of depressive symptoms among adults in the UK has shown a marked increase, rising from 10% in 2017 to around 20% in 2021. The rise has been especially notable among young adults aged 18-24.
These charts highlight a significant increase in depressive symptoms among adults in England between 2017 and 2021, with the highest prevalence observed in the 18-24 age group.
Factors Influencing Mental Health
Several elements contribute to the mental health of the population:
• Socio-economic factors: People facing financial hardship, unemployment, or social isolation show higher rates of mental health issues.
• Work environment: Stressful or precarious working conditions increase the risk of mental health disorders.
• Life events: Traumatic or significant life changes, such as the loss of a loved one or major life transitions, can negatively impact mental health.
Mandalas: A Tool for Focus and Meditation
Mandalas, meaning “circle” in Sanskrit, have been used for centuries in spiritual traditions to symbolize the universe and encourage inner peace. Today, they are increasingly incorporated into wellness practices in Western cultures, especially for meditation and stress relief.
The Impact of Mandalas on Focus and Stress Reduction
Engaging in activities like colouring or contemplating mandalas is an example of active meditation. Focusing visually and mentally on the circular patterns helps to recentre the mind and has shown positive effects on concentration and relaxation.
A study published in Art Therapy: Journal of the American Art Therapy Association found that mandala colouring significantly helps reduce stress. Participants who coloured mandalas for 20 minutes reported a 25% decrease in self-reported anxiety, compared to a 10% decrease for those involved in other unstructured artistic activities.
Study on the Physiological and Mental Effects of Mandalas
The benefits of mandalas go beyond stress reduction. A study from the University of California, Davis examined the impact of meditation on cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone. After six months of regular meditation practice, participants’ cortisol levels, measured through hair samples, decreased by an average of 25%, highlighting meditation’s effectiveness in reducing chronic stress.
Improved Focus and Attention
Mandalas promote focus and attention. Regular practice can help both children and adults channel their thoughts through repetitive and structured patterns, which is particularly beneficial for those looking to improve their attention span. In educational contexts, mandala colouring exercises are sometimes used to support students’ concentration, providing a safe, expressive outlet that also encourages mental clarity.
Therapeutic Use of Mandalas in Psychology and Art Therapy
Psychologists also use mandalas in art therapy to help patients express and regulate their emotions. The circular and repetitive structure of mandalas creates a safe framework, allowing individuals to focus without feeling overwhelmed. In the UK, many mental health organisations recommend art therapy, including mandala colouring, for people with anxiety disorders.
Proven Benefits of Art and Geometry in Stress Reduction
The calming effects of art and geometric forms on the mind are widely acknowledged by researchers and mental health professionals. Art practices, including painting, colouring, and drawing, are commonly used in therapy for their positive impact on mental well-being. Such activities allow for the expression of complex emotions, reduce anxiety, and promote emotional regulation. Furthermore, the exposure to geometric shapes, especially those from sacred geometry, provides visual harmony, which has also been shown to alleviate stress.
Therapeutic Effects of Art on Stress and Anxiety
The psychological benefits of art are well-documented. A study in Art Therapy demonstrated that people participating in 45-minute art activities, such as drawing or colouring, experienced a reduction of nearly 30% in cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone. This effect is attributed to the flow state, a mental state of complete immersion in an activity, reducing mental rumination and anxiety.
Effects of Geometric Shapes on the Mind
Geometric shapes, especially the symmetrical and harmonious patterns of sacred geometry, are known for their calming effects. Neuroscience research shows that repetitive and orderly shapes positively influence spatial perception, fostering feelings of security. The human brain is naturally drawn to organised patterns and perfect proportions, which stimulate areas associated with calm and emotional stability.
For example, symbols like the Flower of Life and Metatron’s Cube are frequently used in meditation practices to focus the mind and promote relaxation. Observing these patterns can help regulate breathing, calm the nervous system, and reduce anxiety. Practitioners of sacred geometry claim that these symbols emit a harmonious vibrational frequency that positively influences emotional well-being.
Practical Applications: Meditation and Interior Design
More and more people use objects inspired by sacred geometry in their daily lives to bring a sense of well-being to their living or workspaces. Wall decorations featuring mandalas or sacred geometry symbols, such as the Flower of Life, are often incorporated into meditation spaces to foster a calming atmosphere.
Mental health professionals also recommend incorporating mandalas and geometric shapes in guided meditation sessions or art therapy, as these shapes provide focal points for the mind, allowing practitioners to channel their attention and cultivate a sense of calm and mental clarity.
Conclusion
Art and sacred geometry are powerful tools for mental well-being. Their ability to calm the mind and reduce stress has made these practices increasingly popular, supported by scientific evidence and concrete therapeutic applications. By incorporating these practices into our daily lives, we can enjoy enhanced mental health and a greater sense of balance between body and mind.
Sources and references
Links are in the text directly
Mental Health Foundation: Provides statistics on mental health issues in the UK, particularly among young adults.
NHS Digital - Mental Health of Children and Young People in England
Centre for Mental Health: Reports on the economic costs of mental health problems in the UK.
Public Health England: Launches campaigns to increase mental health awareness and improve access to mental health support.
Health Survey for England 2021: Details the increase in depressive symptoms among adults in England from 2017 to 2021.
Journal of the American Art Therapy Association: Study on the effects of mandala colouring in reducing stress.
University of California, Davis: Research highlighting the effectiveness of meditation in reducing cortisol levels and chronic stress.
