Nature mandalas
Use natural treasures to build peaceful circular patterns for a fun and mindful activity.
This simple invitation blends art, mindfulness, and nature in the most soothing way. After a walk or wander through the park or garden, gather some of the treasures you’ve found - leaves, petals, twigs, shells, or stones - and arrange them into a mandala: a circular, symmetrical pattern radiating from the centre.
There’s no right or wrong way to do it, and no glue or tools needed. Just a quiet space on the ground or on paper, and a bit of focused creativity. Making mandalas can be incredibly...
Materials
Prep
Go on a nature walk or backyard hunt to collect small natural items. Try to find multiples of similar shapes or colours.
Play
Step 1:
Choose a flat spot to work on - outdoors on the ground or indoors on a table or paper.
Step 2:
Start by placing one item in the centre.
Step 3:
Begin building your mandala outwards in circles or radiating lines, repeating shapes, colours, or textures in symmetrical patterns.
Step 4:
Pause, rearrange, and adjust as you go. There’s no rush - just enjoy the quiet process.
Extend
Alphabet or Shape Variations: Encourage kids to form letters or shapes using nature items instead of circles.
Group Mandala: Work on a large collaborative mandala with friends or family, with each person adding a section.
Movement & Breath Add-on: Pair with a few calming breaths or gentle stretches before or after to turn it into a mini mindfulness ritual.
