Mala Beads have been a staple in my mediation space since over covid, i found myself needing something to focus my energy more to help me move through such a stressful time.
Mala Beads or Japamala are a 3000 year old tradition originating in both Hindu and Buddhist traditions as a meditation tool. The translation from Sanskrit to mean prayer garland or garland of roses.
The 108 beads are a loop of consistent sized beads that form the garland part of the necklace. The significance of 108 in Hindu transition is said to meant to represent the universe. So as you travel through all 108 you can reach a higher plain. The Tassel represents the lotus which is sad to be the state of higher consciousness.
Traditionally used as a way of counting prayers or mantras during mediation or to increase mindfulness, but can also be a great tool in yoga and to assist with stress and anxiety. Along with being a beautiful necklace or wrist accessory.
Mediation:
To use Mala Beads in mediation can be approached from many ways and finding what works for you and going with that is key. Traditionally, a mantra or prayer is said with each bead. You can also count your breaths as you move over the beads or just simply count the beads. The method is to really help focus and not let your thoughts wander so try a few different things and see what feels best. See some Mantra examples below to help start you off.
Stress and Anxiety:
Having something tangible to remind you to breathe and come back into your body when stressed or feeling anxious is so important. Mala Beads are a great tool for this. Counting or repeating a mantra while touching the beads can help focus the mind away from the swimming thoughts that can escalate feelings of stress and anxiety.
Yoga:
Mala Beads can be also used in your Yoga practice to hold at the end of a class in Savasana. Holding the beads while calming the mind and feeling the cool of the beads slowly warm as you lay in final moments of the practice.
How to wear:
Around the neck is the easy accessible way to wear them. Our Mala Beads are long enough that they can also be worn doubled for a short and long or 2 medium length beads.
Mala Beads can also be worn at the wrist looped over repeatedly until secure. This is a great way to literally have them on hand if you are using the beads as a practice for stress and anxiety.
Mantra Examples:
Om
Sohum (in Sanskrit means ‘I am he/she/that/the universe’)
I am enough
I am abundant
I am worthy of love
I release my anxious thoughts
I am at ease
I am one with the universe
Maintaining your Mala Beads:
All of our Mala Beads are made with semi precious stones/crystals and therefore it is best to energetically cleanse them regularly to get the benefit of the crystals in your practice. Our favourite way to cleanse is to leave a piece of selenite crystal with the beads to cleanse them between uses.
I hope you have enjoyed exploring the versatility of Mala Beads and would love to hear your methods in the comments below.