Mandalas have been used in many spirituals traditions around the world. Though each culture imbues them with a different meaning, there seems to be a sense that these are not simply pictures but rather a portal to a different state of consciousness. I find that when I am drawing, I am able to over-ride my monkey mind and exit the alert, problem-solving mindset in which I spend the majority of my day. In doing this, I learn to better attune to my inner voice.