What is a Mala? And how do I use it?

Ah, the Mala! It’s like a statement necklace, a tool for meditation, and a personal representation of yourself all rolled into one.

This beautiful strand of 108 beads with a Guru Bead and tassel is not just for the Buddhist prayer, anyone can wear it, regardless of their faith.

The Mala has a long and fascinating history that spans many cultures and religions. The word “Mala” comes from the Sanskrit language, which is an ancient language of India.

In Sanskrit, “Mala” means “garland,” which refers to the garland of beads that make up the Mala.
The Mala has been used for thousands of years in various spiritual traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. In Hinduism, the Mala is used for prayer and meditation, and it’s believed that reciting a mantra while counting the beads on the Mala helps to focus the mind and increase spiritual awareness.

In Buddhism, the Mala is also used for meditation and prayer, and it’s commonly known as “Buddhist Prayer Beads” or “Japa Mala.” The number 108 is considered a sacred number in Buddhism, and it’s believed that there are 108 earthly desires that one must overcome to reach enlightenment. Thus, the Mala is traditionally made with 108 beads.

The use of the Mala is not limited to these Eastern religions, though. The Catholic Church has a similar tool called the Rosary, which is also used for prayer and meditation. The Rosary is made up of 59 beads, and it’s used to recite prayers to the Virgin Mary.

Here is my step-by-step guide on how to meditate with a Mala

1. Choose a quiet and comfortable place to sit down where you won’t be disturbed. Sit down in you favourite position.
   Hold your Mala in your right hand, with the first bead next to the guru bead between your thumb and middle finger.
2. Take a few deep breaths to center yourself and relax your body and mind.
   Set your intention for your meditation. This can be a word or phrase that represents what you want to focus on or achieve during your meditation.
3. Begin to recite your mantra, affirmation or intention with each bead. Start at the first bead next to the guru bead, and use your thumb to pull the bead towards you as you say your mantra. Move to the next bead with your thumb and repeat your mantra. Continue until you’ve gone all the way around the Mala and reach the guru bead again.
   When you reach the guru bead, you can pause or reverse direction, but don’t count it as a bead. If you choose to reverse direction, continue reciting your mantra with each bead until you reach the guru bead again.
4. Once you’ve completed your meditation, take a few deep breaths and sit quietly for a moment to allow the benefits of your practice to sink in.
5. When you’re finished, gently place your Mala back in your hand and express gratitude for your practice.

Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to meditate with a Mala. It’s a personal practice, so feel free to adapt it to your needs and preferences. The most important thing is to be present and mindful during your meditation, and let the Mala guide you towards a deeper sense of peace and intention.

Choosing a Mala is a deeply personal and intuitive process.

A journey that allows you to connect with your higher self. Discover what truly resonates with your soul. The trick is to listen to the whispers of your heart and allow your intuition to guide you toward the Mala that speaks to you. Reading the description of the various Malas will help you get into the zone, which Mala is calling you?

Each Mala is unique and carries its own energy and intention, and the gemstones or seeds that make up the beads have their own healing properties that can help balance your energies and uplift your spirits. When you wear a Mala with intention, it’s like you’re carrying a little piece of the universe with you, reminding you of your purpose and inner beauty.

If you’re feeling blue or out of alignment, our handmade Malas are made by Anna Michielan with the finest quality gemstones and can help you find balance and harmony within yourself. These gemstones have been chosen for their specific healing properties, and each piece is crafted with love and intention to help you feel grounded and uplifted.

So go ahead and wear a Mala with intention, let it be a reminder of your soul’s purpose, and allow it to guide you toward a life filled with peace, love, and intention.

Are you feeling lost, dear adventurer? Fear not, for I hold the key to unlocking the secrets of the universe! Behold, the magical Mala! With each bead, you will journey deeper into the mystical realm of your soul, unlocking hidden talents and uncovering hidden truths. And as you wear our Mala, you’ll radiate a luminous energy that will make unicorns jealous.