Have you wondered about the beads that adorn the wrists and necks of yogi’s?
They are known as Mala beads or Malas.
Yoga Mala bead necklaces or bracelets often hold special significance for the yogi based on where they got it, why they chose the stones, and the energy resonance they feel with the beads. Sometimes these are worn and other times they are used for mantra repetition, known as Japa meditation.
“Mala” translates as “garland”
Traditionally they have 108 beads knotted together, a guru bead which is larger than the rest and a tassel. Sages and those with spiritual aspirations have been using Malas for thousands of years to enhance their spiritual practices. Nowadays Malas are made out of a variety of materials including wood, seeds, gemstones and crystals.
The string of beads is commonly used to count mantras in sets of 108 repetitions (Japa meditation) and you can wear it to receive its healing powers and as a reminder of your intentions and life goals. The guru bead is used to signify the end or the beginning of each round of mantra repetition. The tassel is symbolic of a lotus blossom and represents enlightenment.
Special marker beads are sometimes placed after every 27th bead to make it easier to keep track. You’ll also find bracelets and decorative necklaces with 54 or 27 beads, representing half and a quarter of the 108 respectively. The number 108 is thought to be an ideal 3-digit number, whose digits 1+0+8 add up to nine, which is another great number of three 3’s. The number 108 has spiritual significance and there can be as many as 108 reasons why if you do a quick Google search!
“Mantras are not small things, Mantras have power” Yogi Bhajan
“Mantra” is a Sanskrit word made up of two syllables: “man” (mind) and “tra” (liberate). Therefore the word “Mantra” translates to “liberate one’s mind”. Whether chanted aloud or repeated in one’s mind, a mantra has the power to create transformation on a physical, emotional or spiritual level. By repeating your chosen mantra daily in rounds of 108, you will begin to tap into the power of that mantra and start to quieten the mind.
“Om” mantra is a great way to begin a daily Japa meditation practice using a Mala. Om is said to be the sound or vibration of all living things. By repeating Om as a mantra you are tuning into this vibration and acknowledging your connection to all other living beings, nature and the universe. Reported physical benefits of daily Japa meditation using OM mantra include: improvements in focus, concentration and steadiness, feelings of peace and calm, and a reduction in stress and anxiety.
It is important to consider your intentions when choosing your Mala beads as wooden beads, seeds and gemstones all carry specific energies or properties for the wearer. Your intention should also guide your choice of mantra for use in Japa meditation.
If I’ve sparked your interest and you’d like to create your uniquely inspired Mala, please let me know. I run workshops where you have the opportunity to choose the gemstones, knot the beads, make a tassel, choose a mantra and learn more about Malas and the Japa meditation technique.