I have used a Mala in my meditation practice for a few years now.
But what exactly are they? Why do I hear 108 associated with it? What are they made of? How do you use them?
In short Mala’s are meditation garlands. They are used in meditation or prayer to keep you focused on an intention or to simply keep your mind from wandering. Typically they have 108 beads and a guru bead.
WHY 108 Beads?
108 is a sacred number in Yoga and Buddhism. The are a bunch of reasons why the number 108 is significant: It is believed that there are…
- 108 Upanishads – ancient texts of wisdom from the sages.
- 108 Earthly desires.
- 108 Impurities or lies one must over come.
- 108 Feelings – 36 related to the past, 36 related to the present and the 36 related to the future.
- 108 Astrology – 9 planets and 12 zodiac signs, 9 times 12 equals 108.
- 108 Energy lines converging to form the heart chakra.
There are many other reasons why the number 108 is significant but these are some of the reasons I started using a Mala.
What are they made of?
Sacred materials such as Rudraksha Seeds, Rosewood, Sandalwood and gemstones are believed to deepen one’s meditation practice, clearing energy and promoting healing and abundance.
Rudraksha beads are made from Rudraksha trees. There is an ancient story that says Lord Shiva went into a deep meditation while sitting outside. When he woke up and opened his eyes tear drops fell on to the Earth. Those tears took the form of seeds and became the Rudraksha tree. These are beads that are believed to lead the wearer to enlightenment.
Sandalwood, while smelling fantastic, is said to bring one closer to the divine. It’s scent is said to transform desires and bring emotional balance.
Rosewood is believed to help manifest what you desire, dream and helps you heal while providing protection against negative energy.
How do you use Malas?
This section is a little up to you. But here is what I do.
I typically dedicate a Mala to an intention or mantra. Mantra being a repeated sound or words to aid in concentration.
Find a comfortable seat. Ideally your spine is long so the chakras are aligned. Take a couple cleansing/grounding breaths here. Place the Mala in your right hand, hold the guru bead, taking a cleansing breath, recite your intention or mantra. Give yourself permission to be present and not rushed during your meditation. This is YOUR time and space. Be selfish here.
The beads are placed between your index finger and middle finger. Use your thumb to pull the smaller beads toward you, each time reciting your mantra either out loud or silently. Allow your inhales to bring the possibilities toward you and your exhales to send your intentions out to the Universe. Travel once around the Mala, ending once your reach the guru bead.
The guru bead symbolizes gratitude and connection to the divine. Once you finish your Mala Meditation don’t rush away, pause in gratitude for the teachers you’ve had on your journey and send some gratitude to your body – allowing your to sit in meditation and freeing up time to do the meditation.
Our Malas have marker beads, this allows you to close your eyes and feel the beads. If your mind has wandered use the marker beads as a way to reset without starting over. Adjust your seat if you need to, maybe say your mantra out loud when you reach these stones. I like the marker beads because it helps me feel like I’m making progress.
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Malas are more than just necklaces, they are meditation tools that have been used for thousands of years. They encourage us to realign with our deepest intentions by pausing and breathing.
PS – We will be showcasing each individual Mala in later posts to give you some background information on the gemstones used!
Happy Meditating!
Namaste,
Jes xoxo