A Journey Inward Through Mandala Art Therapy – My Personal Experience at NeeRav Arts Village

On July 8th 2025, I had the privilege of experiencing something deeply transformative — a Mandala Art Therapy session facilitated one-on-one by the incredibly talented Monica Prakash from PraShree Arts (https://www.instagram.com/prashreearts?igsh=MTdpYXRnNmx6Yzh6dw==).

Monica Prakash, PraShree Arts

While I have always been passionate about curating artistic experiences at NeeRav Arts Village, this was the first time I truly paused to immerse myself in one of those experiences as a participant.

I initially reached out to Monica because of her beautiful Mandala artworks and wanted to explore possibilities for her to conduct sessions during our upcoming retreats. But what she proposed in return became the real game changer — she gently insisted that I first experience the therapy before introducing it to others. And I’m so glad I did.

Stepping Into Stillness

We began with a calming sound bath using a singing bowl. With eyes closed and body relaxed, I slowly let the day's hustle fade away. This meditative start laid the perfect foundation — inviting me to be present, to surrender to the moment, and to prepare myself for what was about to unfold.

Once I opened my eyes, everything was ready — pens, sheets, templates — all thoughtfully arranged beside me. Monica walked me through the basics of Mandala art: the tools involved, the importance of geometric shapes, and the subtle meaning behind each symbol. I was gently encouraged to draw simple shapes like circles and triangles — again and again. With each repetition, I noticed improvement, precision, and, most importantly, focus.

Turning Mistakes Into Art

We then moved to a structured sheet where I drew nested circles, each a canvas for its own geometric pattern. Somewhere along the way, I made a mistake. I looked up, unsure. Monica just smiled and said something that stayed with me —

"In Mandala, even imperfections become part of the design. You embrace it, mirror it, and make it meaningful."

This philosophy felt like a life lesson.

With every stroke, I found myself becoming more mindful. My breath slowed, my thoughts softened, and my hands moved with calm intent. By the end of the session — 2.5 hours later — I had a Mandala full of happiness, as Monica beautifully calls it.

Why This Therapy Matters

As a founder, I’ve always focused on enabling spaces for others. This session reminded me to pause and create space within myself too. Mandala Art Therapy offers so much:

• Reduced screen time and digital fatigue

• Enhanced focus and concentration

• Emotional release and calmness

• A safe outlet for self-expression

• Deep understanding of one's inner abilities

Whether you're a creative person or not, this therapy is for everyone.

My Heartfelt Gratitude

Thank you, Monica, for introducing me to this world of inner alignment through Mandala. I walked in curious and left grateful, centered, and creatively fulfilled. 🙏

If you're reading this and feeling overwhelmed by life's pace, I highly recommend giving yourself the gift of Mandala Art Therapy. Reach out to us at NeeRav Arts Village to experience this life-changing practice for yourself.