How to use Mala Beads?

Mala beads

Mala beads are more than just a trendy accessory.  They are a sacred item that is used as a tool for your meditation practice.  You can use mala beads as a way to repeat a mantra, affirmation, or word over and over again either in your head silently or out loud.  There are 108 beads on a mala necklace plus the guru bead.  Starting at the guru bead, use your thumb to count each smaller bead, pulling it toward you as you recite your mantra, affirmation or word. Do this 108 times, traveling around the mala, until you once again reach the guru bead. Similar to focusing on your breath, this practice helps prevent you from getting lost in your own thoughts. There are many different theories to the significance of the number of beads on the string.  One is that each number has its own meaning: 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. Another is that 108 itself is a sacred number in Hinduism.  I have also heard that you are supposed to repeat the mantra 100 times and the extra 8 are there because we tend to accidentally skip over some beads as we go haha. There are many theories on the number’s significance and it is open to interpretation.  One thing that is important to note is that they are a sacred item and therefore should be handled as such. This means that they should not be placed on the floor including on your yoga mat.  During your yoga practice they should be hung up. If there is not a place to hang the beads then placing them on a block above your mat is a good option instead of having them directly on the floor or your mat.  These beads are available in many varieties of colors and materials. Some beads are made of crystals which are believed to each hold a different healing property or meaning. For example, I have a mala bead necklace that is made of Rose Quartz beads.  The beads represent the commitment to the practice of self-love and are a gentle reminder that everything you are is enough.

Looking for mala beads of your own? Check them out here: https://www.satyajewelry.com/collections/malas