Color Your Way To Relaxation With 'Meditative Mandalas' Program

Artist Crystal Simpelo will be at Sugar Creek Administration Center in Joliet on Saturday, Jan. 28, leading a fun and relaxing program designed to wash away the stress and spark creativity.

Participants will color and create mandalas, which are geometric designs.

"Meditative Mandalas" is set for 10 to 11 a.m. and is for ages 16 or older. Registration is required.

To learn more about Simpelo and her program, the Forest Preserve District of Will County asked her five questions. Here are her answers:

How did your art career begin and what led you to meditative art activities?
My parents told me that as soon as I could hold a crayon I was always finding new ways to be creative in my artwork. As early as I can remember, creating art would always give me a sense of relaxation. I soon realized that all forms of my creations were a way to meditate and have space to forget about all my stress and anxieties.

What is a mandala and why should people sign up for the Forest Preserve’s program?
Simply translated, mandala means "circle." A mandala in meditation can help provide focus, deeper relaxation and spiritual connection. People should sign up for this class if they are interested in using this art form to find body and mind relaxation, activate creativity, improve focus and ease stress and anxiety.

How does coloring express “your soul” and foster relaxation?
Coloring expresses your soul because as you focus on which colors to choose and focus on staying in the lines, you are thinking about that present moment of creation. In doing this, coloring teaches your mind to shut off and connects you to your creative side in a non-intimidating way. It helps you get in touch with a part of yourself that you might not have discovered yet.

Most of us gave up coloring as we grew older, but it has had a resurgence in recent years. Why is that?
I think with the stressors of our everyday lives coloring in recent years has been an easy outlet and tool to help calm our brains from our stress and anxieties.

Why do you think it is important for people to get in touch with meditative activities in today’s day and age?
I think everyone should have different outlets of meditative activities. It is so important for people to find the simple tools that they can use in order to relieve stress, anxiety, and be present. Whether it's coloring, going for a walk in nature, or playing a round of golf. Everyone should explore different ways to find joy and disconnect from our busy lives.