Blog
Seasons
Stage 6, the Month of June
Haven’t we been through enough already?!
This was my first thought as I looked at Stage 6, known as Struggle. It is also sometimes called the Dragon Fight, a stage connected to tension, opposition, boundaries, and the courage to meet what stands in our way.
This was my first thought as I looked at Stage 6, known as Struggle. It is also sometimes called the Dragon Fight, a stage connected to tension, opposition, boundaries, and the courage to meet what stands in our way.
May: Stage 5 of the MARI Mandala Change is in the air
Explore Stage 5 of the MARI Mandala and the energy of May. In this reflection, Mari Grande explores assertion, self protection, shadow, and what it means to tend what is still forming through the lens of the Great Round.
April and Stage 4 of the MARI: The Courage to Begin
April carries the energy of emergence. In this reflection, we explore Stage Four of the MARI Mandala, the tender threshold where the unconscious begins to become conscious, where what has been quietly growing inside you starts pressing toward the light. If you have been feeling the pull to begin something new alongside the vulnerability that comes with it, this is for you.
March, Stage Three, and the Awakening Journey of the M.A.R.I.
Explore Stage 3 of the MARI Mandala and the awakening energy of March. Discover how mandalas reveal early emotional patterns, creativity, and personal growth.
February. The Shape Before the Shape
Explore the intuitive energy of February and Stage 2 of the MARI Mandala. Join Mari to balance inner 'softening' with the dynamic 2026 Year of the Fire Horse.
January: The Power of One
Start the year with intention through “The Power of One,” a reflection on the MARI Mandala, art therapy, and the symbolism of new beginnings. Explore how mandala making can support healing, unity, and personal growth, inspired by Jungian psychology and the wisdom of number one.
A Soft Return to Wholeness
As the year closes, Mari Grande reflects on the power of creativity, the experience of grief, and the quiet wisdom of the mandala. Includes a gentle end-of-year practice and a special offering for those healing the Mother Wound.
What Italy Taught Me About Trusting the Unplanned
A long-awaited trip to Italy turned into a lesson in trust, creativity, and the quiet work of returning to center. Join me in The Mandala Corner this November.
Mandala Magic for Seasonal Change: Creative Healing to Close Summer and Step Into Fall
Winding Down from Summer
Summer tends to pull us outward.
Out into the sun.
Out into other people’s plans.
Out into motion; travel, gatherings, activity, noise.
And sometimes that’s beautiful.
We soak in joy, connection, and nature. We swim, laugh, wander, and explore.
We say yes more. We stretch a little farther.
And sometimes… we overextend.
The season can leave us feeling bright and full, or scattered and crispy.
Often, both.
As summer begins to wind down, it’s helpful to pause for an end of summer refl…
When the Holidays Feel More Like Stress than Cheer
Holiday decorations fill store windows, line the streets, and brighten up homes. The message is loud and clear: It’s a time for joy.