Metta Stones

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By: Caroline Davis 


What is metta?


The word metta has multiple meanings, including “loving-kindness, friendliness, goodwill, benevolence, fellowship, amity, concord, inoffensiveness and non-violence,” according to Access to Insight. Through the practice of metta, one renounces all acts and feelings of violence, unkindness, and ill-willed intent. This way of living promotes an environment with positive energy flow and cordial relationships within. 




What are metta stones?


Metta stones are pieces of artistic work made with flat stones, paint, and fine dotting tools. Metta stones are simply representations of/ peace offerings pertaining to the practice, metta. 


What are the benefits to painting metta stones?


Painting metta stones is a wonderful skill to have, especially at the high school level where work can feel stressful at times. Painting metta stones allows an individual to focus and hone in on a more creative activity instead of schoolwork. Painting metta stones can reduce feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression by 73%, so it is sure to give you some relief over that math homework due tomorrow!




How can I make metta stones?


On the stones, paint is applied to one side using the dotting tool, usually in concentric circles or mandala-style designs. The stone you use should be as flat as you are able to acquire it. It is recommended that the dots sit at close distances to each other to be more visually pleasing. Also, there should be a use of a maximum of 4 colors because the fewer the colors, the more the creator is forced to make ornate designs, rather than repetitive designs with a multitude of colors. 


Where can I buy authentic metta stones?


You can view a wide selection of carefully-crafted mandala metta stones on Etsy, where the stones are hand-painted!



Work cited:


https://www.accesstoinsight.org/lib/authors/buddharakkhita/wheel365.html 


https://www.flickr.com/photos/61254075@N08/33342752574




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