Mala

A mala is a string of beads used in meditation practice to help count mantras. It’s also used as a tactile guide to sit in silence. Malas can be made of various materials, traditionally wood, rosewood or sandalwood, seeds or authentic semiprecious gemstones.

Mala beads have been used by spiritual seekers and yogis since originating in India over 3000 years ago. With roots in Hinduism and Buddhism, they are used for a special type of meditation called Japa (Sankrit, meaning “to recite”). The Sanskit meaning of Mala being “meditation garland”. These days Malas are used in exactly the same way but also, for reflection, yoga practice, to promote peace and a mindful life or for the inherent healing and calming properties of the semiprecious gemstones the Mala may be constructed from.

It is not definitively known why Mala’s are 108 beads long. Some believe there are 108 stages on the journey of the human soul, others say its related to the chakras and 108 energy lines connected to the heart, others that 1 stands for higher truth, 0 stands for emptiness or completeness in spiritual practice, and 8 stands for infinity or eternity. Whatever the reason 108 beads are traditionally used.

Traditionally Malas are made of 108 beads, separated by an overhand knot (providing the perfect space for Japa meditation), a tassel and a guru bead. The tassel signifies many things, but most generally agree on ‘oneness’. Many threads coming together as one. The guru bead, is the bead that the tassel attaches to, is said to symbolise the guru that taught the mantra so paying homage to the student/guru relationship. When meditating with a Mala, you start next to the guru bead and recite the mantra for every bead you come to, continuing until coming back to the guru bead. This signals a time for reflection. You can reflect on your meditation practice, give thanks to your mantra, honour your guru — or show yourself a moment of gratitude for slowing down to meditate. Never continue over the guru bead. Instead, turn around and continue in the opposite direction.

Anyone can wear mala beads, whether you meditate or not. You can wear them around your wrist, your neck, hang them at your altar, or meditate on them. Anything goes, they are a joy to own and more than a piece of jewellery.