For the sake of transparency, please know that this nature mandala image was created using AI. Creepy, I know! But I couldn’t find the right image for this.

Nature mandalas are A fantastic WAY TO connect with your children outdoors

Not only does this activity foster creativity and appreciation for the natural world, it also provides a lovely opportunity to be fully present with each other as you slowly and mindfully co-create a beautiful circular piece of nature art together.

Like all things with children, let them guide the design and remember it’s all about the process, not the outcome. Enjoy this moment with this precious little human.

how to make a nature mandala

Step 1: Choose Your Location

Select a quiet and serene outdoor location where you can find an abundance of natural materials. This could be a park, garden, forest clearing, or even your backyard.

Step 2: Gather Materials

Collect a variety of natural materials from your surroundings. This may include leaves, flowers, small branches, pebbles, stones, pinecones, shells, or any other interesting natural objects you find. Be mindful not to disturb the environment and only gather materials that have already fallen to the ground.

Step 3: Prepare Your Workspace

If you prefer to create your mandala within a defined space, you can prepare your workspace by laying down a blanket or ground cloth. Alternatively, you can create your mandala directly on the ground or on a flat surface such as a large rock or piece of cardboard.

Step 4: Arrange Your Materials

Start by selecting a central focal point for your mandala. This could be a large stone, flower, or any other natural object that catches your eye. Place it at the center of your workspace.

Next, begin arranging your materials around the central focal point in concentric circles or other geometric patterns. Experiment with different colors, shapes, and textures to create a visually appealing design. You can work intuitively or plan your design in advance – there are no strict rules!

Step 5: Build Layers and Add Details

As you continue to arrange your materials, think about building layers and adding intricate details to your mandala. Consider alternating between different types of materials to create contrast and depth. Pay attention to symmetry and balance, but also allow for spontaneity and creativity in your design.

Step 6: Take Breaks and Reflect

Creating a nature mandala is a meditative process, so feel free to take breaks as needed to pause, reflect, and admire your work in progress. Like all things with children, it’s about the process not the outcome. So take a moment to connect with the natural world around you and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.

Let your mandala serve as a reminder of the peace that can be found in the simple act of creating and appreciating beauty in nature. We love creating nature mandalas at our Forest School programs in Brisbane and on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland.

Interested in coming along to a program?

Click here to find out what’s happening in your ‘neck of the woods’.

Stay wild x

The magic and mindfulness of nature mandalas