Mindfulness Meditation · Awakening
This week’s meditation session is led by Lavina Shamdasani and the theme is Awakening. The guided meditation begins at 11:45.
Lotus Mandala of Hevajra; Northeastern India; 12th century; Copper alloy; Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art; C2003.10.2
The lotus mandala form was probably invented in northeastern India, from where most surviving examples derive. These three-dimensional representations of deity palaces typically feature a deity at the center of the flower that stands atop a tall stem, with their entourage placed on hinged petals around them.
This lotus mandala exhibits iconic features, including the shape of the lotus petals, the scrollwork at the sides of the stem, and the copper alloy used. The sculpture’s mechanical hinges allow for the petals to close around the central deity so that the sculpture resembles a flowerbud.
This lotus mandala portrays the divine couple Hevajra and Nairatmya surrounded by eight yoginis dancing on the petals. Housing the deities in a lotus, a symbol of purity, serves as an ideal metaphor for the perfection of their palatial habitat as envisioned in meditative practice.
As we gaze upon the lotus mandala, let us envision ourselves gradually awakening like the unfurling of the flower’s petals.
Lavina Shamdasani is a certified compassion teacher through the Compassion Institute and Stanford University. She has taught programs focused on mindfulness, compassion, joy, and gratitude and led book club discussions and meditations for over five years.
Lavina studied positive psychology coaching at the Wholebeing Institute and helps clients transform their lives and meet their personal and professional goals.
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