The Power Of Mala Beads In Meditation And Spirituality
Our grandmothers often use mala beads, also known as japa malas, while meditating and chanting. These prayer beads are ideally made of 108 beads and are used in Buddhism and Hinduism, where 108 is considered a sacred number.
A japa mala used for meditation can have fewer than 108 beads, but the count is always divisible by 9, such as 18, 27, or 54 beads. The Guru bead, typically larger or featuring a tassel, stands apart from the count of 108, serving as a guiding marker that signifies both the commencement and culmination of the mala, chant, prayer, or mantra. It is used to keep track of the number of times you have chanted or can even be used for counting breaths, making it an important tool for mindfulness.
According to Healthline, a website for health information, “Mala beads can help you with different aspects of meditation, which is linked to a range of health benefits. Meditation can help reduce stress levels, improve sleep, and lower blood pressure, among other things.”
If a person is meditating, then mala beads help you keep focus by keeping you grounded as you focus on moving the bead through your fingers.
Mala beads are made from various materials such as wood, stone, gems, rudraksha seeds, and precious metals.
A Guide For Using Japa Mala or Mala Beads In Meditation And Spirituality
- Choose Your Mantra: Select a mantra that resonates with you or holds spiritual significance. It could be a traditional Sanskrit mantra like “Om Namah Shivaya” or a simple phrase like “I am peace.”
- Find a Quiet Space: Settle into a quiet and comfortable meditation space where you won’t be disturbed.
- Hold the Mala: Hold the japa mala in your right hand, draped over your middle finger. Avoid using the index finger to touch the beads, as it symbolizes the ego, which should be transcended during meditation.
- Begin with the Guru Bead: Start at the bead adjacent to the Guru bead (the larger bead or tassel), which marks the beginning and end of the mala. This bead is not counted among the 108 beads. Take a moment to set your intention or offer a prayer before beginning your meditation.
- Repeat the Mantra: With each bead, gently move your thumb to the next bead while repeating your chosen mantra silently or aloud. Focus your attention on the sound and vibration of the mantra.
