How to use Mala Beads for Meditation? - Follow these 4 simple steps
Posted by ABISHEK SHRESTHA
Mala beads are a beautiful and sacred tool that is frequently used when starting a Japa meditation journey. You're in the right place if you're wondering how these beaded strings can improve your regular meditation routine. Japa meditation is a potent method that involves repeating mantras to develop inner peace and spiritual focus. It has its roots in the ancient Vedic tradition. This experience can be greatly enhanced by using mala beads, which provide significant spiritual and mental health benefits, such as increased awareness and decreased stress.
What are Mala Beads?
Mala beads, also known as prayer beads, are spiritual instruments used to record mantra recitations in Buddhist and other spiritual practices, as well as in traditional Hindu meditation and are more than just a string of beads. Mala mantra beads are distinguished by their tactile nature as a meditation tool. They are usually strings of 108 beads plus one additional bead "guru" or "meru" bead made of semi-precious stones and crystals. The Guru/Meru Bead at the end of the strand attached directly to the tassel is the 109th bead.
Click Here To Learn About The History And Significance Of Mala Beads In Meditation
Mala bead materials are frequently selected based on their unique energetic qualities:
Rudraksha beads:
These beads are seeds from the Rudraksha tree, which is highly prized in Hinduism and is thought to provide protection, peace, and support for spiritual development.
Sandalwood:
Known for its calming scent, sandalwood is said to encourage focus and tranquility.
Crystal/Gemstone Mala:
A variety of gemstones are used, each contributing a different vibrational energy to the practice, such as lapis lazuli (for truth), amethyst (for intuition), or rose quartz (for love).
How to use Mala Beads during meditation? (Step-by-Step)
1) Keep your spine straight
Sit down in a comfortable cross-legged position such as Siddhasana (also called the Accomplished Pose), Sukhasana (commonly known as the Easy Pose), or Padmasana (which is the traditional Lotus Pose). Choose the one that feels most natural and steady for your body, allowing you to sit upright with your spine straight and your body relaxed. Make sure your legs are folded comfortably and your hands are resting gently on your knees or in your lap.
2) Hold the mala in your right hand
Gently take the mala in your right hand and hold it with care. Use your thumb to slowly move each bead, one after another, in a calm and steady way. Let the movement be smooth and gentle, helping you stay focused and relaxed during your practice.
3) Chant your chosen mantra
As you move through each bead on the mala, softly repeat the mantra you have chosen. Let the words flow naturally with each bead you touch, keeping your mind calm and focused. This steady repetition will help you stay connected to your practice and bring a sense of peace and clarity. If you’re curious to explore more mantras and discover which one aligns best with you, feel free to check our blog [link here].
4) Never cross the guru bead
Continue moving around the circle of beads, one by one, but when you reach the larger guru bead, do not cross over it. Instead, take a moment to pause and reflect on your practice. If you wish to continue, gently turn the mala around and go back in the opposite direction, starting again with the last bead you touched.
You want to make sure your japa mala stays a lovely and sacred instrument for your practice now that you know how to use it for meditation and intention setting. Proper care is the key!
Learn all about how to cleanse, store, and maintain the energy of your beads in our detailed guide: Mala Beads: A Guide to Care and Washing.
The Main Takeaway
A tactile and accessible way to anchor your mind, cultivate mindfulness, and connect with your inner self, mala beads are a surprisingly simple yet profoundly powerful tool to help you focus your intentions, deepen your meditation, and add a tangible sense of calm to your daily practice. Give them a try today.
I hope this blog post has answered your queries and helped you in your journey for focus, spiritual growth and a fruitful life.
Choose your authentic Mala beads that speak to you from our beautiful collection.
