Watercolor Mandalas for Healing Self-Image
Most of us have parts that struggle to see what's lovable and magnetic in who we truly are. We scan for flaws instead of seeing the unique essence we bring into the world. Watercolor mandalas offer an intuitive way to reconnect with the qualities of your true self—the version of you that others often see more clearly than you do.
The Light Shadow: What We Struggle to See
In Jungian psychology, we hear about the "shadow" as the dark, hidden parts of ourselves that feel unacceptable or too painful to face. But there is another kind of shadow: the light shadow. This refers to the bright, radiant parts of who we are—our warmth, creativity, compassion, presence, intelligence—that we also unconsciously push away.
Why? Because these parts often feel unsafe to own. We may fear judgment, abandonment, or not living up to the glow we sense inside. So instead, protective parts keep us focused on what needs fixing. We become experts in seeing what's wrong and blind to what is most right.
Our brightness—what makes us attractive, resonant, and magnetic—is the biggest and most essential part of us when we see the whole picture. This mandala practice helps bring that light out of the shadow.
Step 1: Create a Safe Container
Begin by drawing a large circle on watercolor paper. This is your container—a sacred space for self-reflection and self-expression. You can divide the circle into shapes or let it remain open. There's no right or wrong way to begin.
Let the circle represent the part of you that is whole, even if you don't always feel that way.
Step 2: Connect with Your Essence
Before picking up a brush, take a few quiet breaths. Place your hand on your heart or belly. Gently bring to mind the idea of meeting someone just like you. What qualities would stand out? What would you admire? What kind of presence would this person bring?
Jot down 3-5 words or images that come to mind. These will become the foundation of your mandala.
Step 3: Paint the Feeling of You
Begin painting within your circle. Let color, shape, and line express the qualities you named.
Ask yourself:
What does my warmth look like?
What color is my depth?
How does your essence move across the page?
Let this be an intuitive, somatic process. Your body knows more than your mind about your true self.
Step 4: Witness What Emerges
Once you've finished, pause. Sit back and look at what you created.
Ask:
What part of me is visible here?
What surprises me about this image?
What does this reflect about how I deserve to be seen?
You may wish to give your mandala a name—a word or phrase that captures its feeling.
Additional Resources
If you want more inspiration, Michele Faia’s work is a beautiful next step. Her watercolor mandalas are intuitive, soulful, and deeply supportive for those wanting to connect with their essence. I highly recommend her book Art In My Heart: The Power of Watercolor Mandala Making.
