Mala Beads
While nowadays it’s becoming more and more common to see others around us wearing mala beads, these aren’t just the next fashion trend to jump on. Mala beads are a string of beads used in meditation to count mantras, prayers, or intentions. They’re considered prayer beads like rosary beads are to Catholics. Mala beads were developed to help focus the mind and stay clear from thoughts. These prayer beads have 108 beads strung together to make it. 108 crystals and 1 guru bead. The guru(teacher) also known as the meru(mountain) is the largest bead on the Mala. This bead represents the starting and ending point helping you to count 108. There are three different types of mal you can have. The full Mala which has 108 beads and the meru. These can be worn any way you’d like around your neck, as a bracelet, or just held during meditation. You could also have a half mala. These are made with only 54 beads. A wrist Mala is only 27 counting beads and are made specifically to be a bracelet. These beads are used by those who practice Buddhism. While some don’t normally wear them, if they do they’re traditionally worn on the right wrist. Avoid touching them with your pointer finger as it represents the ego. Though you can use your beads however you’d like!
Why 108?
The number 108 is very important and has proven to be saved through the years. For example, there’s 108 letters in the Sanskrit alphabet, 108 sacred holy sites in India, 108 marma (acupressure points), 108 names of goddesses to name a few.
Activating Your Mala Beads
Once you receive your beads many like to set their intention for them, like with crystals. To do so you first create a quiet comfortable place. Lift a candle or incense then close your eyes focusing on your breathing. With a clear mind, begin to set your intention while running the beads through your hands. Avoid touching your beads with your pointer finger as it has a direct link to your ego. Visualize peace of mind and inner calm. While doing this many repeat the traditional mantra three times. Om Hrim Namah Shivaya Om. Once complete sit for five minutes to seal the energetic bond.
Cleansing Your Mala Beads:
Place in sunlight (if the crystals can be in the sunlight.
Place in the moonlight.
Burn sage around your Mala.
Place Mala in a singing bowl.
Benefits of Mala Beads:
Increased focus during meditation.
Helps count mantras
Holding the beads helps transmute their healing powers.
Wearing mala serves as a reminder of your intentions/goals.
They protect, guide, and serve as a constant reminder of divinity that’s within you.
What to do when your Mala Breaks.
When your Mala breaks this is a sign that you no longer need it. It’s time to focus on new intentions to bring into your life. Honor the release to help you begin your transition. This is the time to reflect on your journey and begin to look for a new intention.
Color Guide:
Black: great for protecting and success. Wearing helps to protect against negative energy and even helps with shadow work. Can be made with smoky Quartz, black onyx, and obsidian.
Blue: can be worn for peace and relaxation. Linked to calm and can represent the soothing of the ocean. These beads can be made with aquamarine, lapis lazuli, and black sky Jasper.
Brown: These beads, usually wooden, represent Mother Earth with her grounding effects. Stands for stability and warmth. These prayer beads can be made with sandalwood, tiger's eye, and bodhi seed.
Orange: helps focus on ambition, creativity, and fun while connecting us with our inner child and embrace a playfulness of life. These beads can also help bring increased feelings of enthusiasm and joy. Some are made with carnelian, Amber, or honey Calcite.
Yellow: can bring clarity, creativity, and inspiration while helping to clear your mind and remain focused. Can be made with citrine and honey calcite.
White/Clear: symbolizing purity and peace these types of beads are thought to be a connection to the spiritual world and angels. Can be created with white howlite and clear Quartz.
Red: representing courage, power, and drive these beads can help you to boost productivity, or find clarity on how to take action moving forward. Can be made with garnet or red Jasper.
Purple: bring attention to mystery and depth these beads are linked to the third eye and even enhance your intuition. These mala beads can contain amethyst and sugilite.
Pink: representing love and connection these beads are connected to affection, compassion, empathy, and inner peace. These mala beads can help to create harmony in your relationships. Some are made by Rose Quartz, pink jade, and rhodonite.
Green: promotes personal growth and opportunity. These beads represent prosperity, growth, and healing. While also embracing moving energy thanks to connection to the heart chakra.
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