What’s a mala and how to use these beads to meditate.

A Mala is a strand or garland of beads that has traditionally been used in prayer and meditation for centuries, but you don’t have to use it just for meditation or prayer. You can simply where a Mala as reminder of an intention that you’ve set for yourself or something you’re trying to manifest. The beads themselves can have powerful healing properties. If you do want to use your Mala beads in meditation that’s called Japa or Mantra Meditation and is a powerful technique to transform your mind, reduce stress and manifest your intentions.

To practice Japa meditation, you will need a set of japa mala beads and will pick them up with the tassel towards yourself. You take them all in your hand, making sure not to use the index finger as that represents the ego. As you turn each bead in your finger with your thumb you repeat a mantra to yourself.

This mantra can be said out loud or internally. It can be a simple affirmation such as the word love or an affirmation phrase such as I am at peace or I am grounded. Whenever you’re looking to cultivate in your life, use that to choose the best mantra or affirmation for you. Lightly touch each of the beads as you chant the mantra.

When you do get all the way around 108 beads, you’ll reach what’s called the guru bead. This is the connection between the Tassel and the mala. This represents a time for pause and reflection, honoring your practice, your intention, and your guru in caring for your Mala. You can stop your meditation at this point or you can continue with another round of 108 mantras.

Finish your practice by holding your japa mala beads between your hands, bowing your head and feeling gratitude for the power of prayer and affirmation in your life.

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