What is a mala?

Hindu Prayer Beads are considered by many to be the oldest prayer  beads in the world. Known as mala, this word translates from Sanksrit as "garland of flowers".A mala is a string of 108 beads with one bead as the summit bead called a 'sumeru'. It is a tool used to keep your mind on the meditation practice. Malas are generally made from different materials such as tulsi (basil) wood, sandal wood, rudraksha seeds or hakik. Each type of material has certain properties which subtly affect the subconscious mind of the practitioner.

Importance of using a mala

Meditation can be quite a tricky practice because the mind is like a naughty child. By its very nature, the mind tends to wander off during the meditation practice. If ones energy is low at the time of meditation, falling asleep can result. If the energy is too high, fantasy and distraction become the barriers. At such times, the mala provides the much needed anchor.The mala beads are moved in rhythm with the breath and the mantra, so that both-sleep as well as excessive mental distraction-are prevented by this action upon the beads.

Mala for wearing purposes

A personal mala is a wonderful accessory to meditation, which when used regularly with a personal mantra, absorbs the vibrations of the practice. It becomes like a close friend or a comfortable piece of clothing. The japa mala, when worn also acts as a talisman and maintains a positive flow of energy throughout the body.Moreover, now a days bead therapy is very common and many people have been benefited by this.

How to Use a Japa Mala/Rosary Beads?