Rather than working from the center out, as in a traditional mandala, this is worked from the outside in. Used as a tool for meditation, the process of working inward invites you to do some introspection. Look inside yourself, see your struggles and your strengths, find your path. The meditation can be as difficult as the actual crochet work. I found this to be very healing when I created it. I debated about including an explanation of what each round symbolized for me, but we are all different; with different histories and experiences, different needs and desires, different failures and successes. I encourage you to find your own meanings while making this. As each row goes further toward the center, look deeper within yourself, and you may hear your own heart speaking to you.

This can be worked in anywhere from 1-19 different colors, as desired. I used 10 colors, and wrote the pattern indication which color I used for each row.
In addition to the yarn and hook, you will need a 5 inch metal craft ring, scissors, tapestry needle, and (optional) super glue.
Unfortunately, I did not measure the amount of yarn used in each round, nor the gauge required. However, pictures are included for (nearly) every round, and you can compare with your piece to see if it is matching up.

Basic stitches and terms (slst, ch, sc, hdc, dc, tr, dtr, FO) are not explained within the pattern. Basic knowledge of the stitches is required. There are a few rows that are slightly complicated, owing mostly to the lack of flexibility of the piece since you are working off a metal ring.