The Mandala of Being

The choices we make each day and how we spend our time are strong indicators of how connected we are with the essence of our being.

This mandala represents the chaos that defines many of our lives. The aspects of life that bring joy and support health are relegated to time left after all the “important” things are finished. Of course, the “important” things are never definitively finished and we are left unfulfilled and unhealthy. Over time, this lifestyle hastens disease, rapid aging, and mental decline.

This mandala exemplifies a balanced life. It shows six significant values that allow an individual to live a fulfilling, self-sustaining life that is rarely overwhelming.

The greatest breakthrough emerging from the present healthcare system is the growth of integrative and complementary medicine. Three-quarters of medical schools now offer programs in complementary alternative medicine (CAM). More than 40% of Americans seek help through acupuncture, biofeedback, energy medicine, hypnotherapy and other CAM modalities. Medical practitioners are beginning to see the value of addressing patients’ needs in a holistic manner. Physicians are replacing eight-minute visits with thorough investigations into every single factor that could potentially cause poor health or disease. As a result, the best preventive, natural, and cost-effective measures can potentially be called upon to treat clients. Finally, the heart and soul of medicine can be reclaimed; healthcare can grow green in its own right.

With deeper understanding of interconnectedness, and awareness that one wavelike motion of the web affects the whole, sustainable communities and 21st century healthcare models are developing worldwide. In keeping with its rich history of culture and health, Santa Fe continues to be a leader in the development of holistic-style healing centers, centers for spiritual wellbeing, spas, innovative schools, and living communities. It is thrilling for me to see my two young children learn principles of co-creation, recycling, water conservation, and unity of all life. Meeting in a circle each morning at their public school has reinforced their understanding of conscious communication. We recently participated as a family in a community event to create the school’s first garden.

Although we have a long way to go, we’re beginning to live in harmony with self, community, and the natural world. This is how we stay healthy in a changing world, how we participate in the greening of medicine: by moving away from the overwhelming dependency on the pharmaceutical industry and toward living sustainably. We can accomplish this if we support our local food-growers and our local economy in general. Every chance we get; we must help to reduce, not increase, our carbon footprint. Every moment of every day holds the possibility of embracing this movement through our choices and actions, big and small.

In the end, what matters most?
Did you give and receive love?
Did you live and nurture your divine potential?
Did you learn to be at peace with what is?
Did you learn to live in a harmonious relationship
with Mother Earth?

Optimal health and wholeness is not just a personal choice
- it is how we change the world!