What is a Mala
What Are Mala Beads & How Do I Use Them?
A mala is simply a string of beads that are used in a meditation practice. It is a tool to help you count mantras, and acts as a tactile guide as you sit in silence. Malas can be made of many materials — we only use authentic premium gemstones, rudraksha seeds and sandalwood. Our 3 female artisans hand knot and bless each piece, each malas is saged after completion.
More than just beautiful adornment, malas are powerful and symbolic tools for meditation. There are many theories and believs behind the significance of the number 108, which has long been considered a sacred number for example in Hinduism. We have been taught that the number 1 stands for God, the universe or your own highest truth; 0 stands for emptiness and humility in spiritual practice; and 8 stands for infinity and timelessness.
Find out what energy the gemstones traditionally are believed carry, listen in how it matches the intentions you want tand need to set in your life. That way the mala becomes what the wearer wants it to be. You engage the energy of the beads with your prayers, your hopes, your intentions and dreams.
Your mala really becomes whatever your intentions for it is
A How-to for using Mala Beads for Meditation
- Choose a spot and sit comfotably with your spine straight and your eyes closed. Take a few deep breaths to center and align yourself with your intention.
- If you have one, use a mantra for this practice, chanting aloud or silently.
- Hold your mala in your right hand, draped between your middle and index fingers. Starting at the guru bead, use your thumb to count each smaller bead, pulling it toward you as you recite your mantra. Do this 108 times, traveling around the mala, until you once again reach the guru bead.
- If you want to continue the meditation, instead of passing over the guru bead, simply reverse direction and begin again
