Step-by-Step Guide to Using Mala Beads in Meditation

Introduction

For those who are new to either meditation or mala beads, the concept of having a string of 108 beads to follow their practice might seem a little abstract at first: a clear step-by-step process can make all the difference. If following this clearly defined process moving into the practice of mala-bead meditation is otherwise guesswork and uncertainty, this guide is where you walk through all the steps, including preparing your space and mind, holding and moving along the beads, syncing your breath with each repetition while ending everything with grace.

Getting Your Mind and Space Ready

Pick Up the Mala: Just a couple of moments, yeah, right, before you pick up your mala, to make everything, outside and inside, totally poised for a complete experience of meditation.

 

Find a Quiet Place: Somewhere you cannot be disturbed: A sacred area, a quiet room, or even a lovely corner of your garden: secure and inviting.

 

Set the Scene: Darken the room as much as possible, or use natural sunlight; you might light a candle or incense and throw out a cushion or yoga mat on the floor. You can even make use of a very gentle and calming background music or nature sounds that will actually help settle down your disposition.

 

Set Intention. Ask yourself: What do I want this practice for? You may want to cultivate peace within, clarity, or maybe just become kinder to yourself. Formulate that in your mind. A very simple act of doing this makes your meditation instrumental and specific.

Release Tensions: Sitting in total comfort, on the floor or chair, spine erect but relaxed, shoulder free and jaws unclenched, taking up a few deep breaths by the nose, and forcefully through the mouth releasing, as tension disappears into the thin air.

 

Holding Your Mala Beads
For instance, holding the mala correctly would make it a great length in your treasurer.

Connecting With Breath Along With Bead Movement

Your breath is indeed quite powerful. Synchronizing it with each bead movement will not only increase your mindfulness but also allow you to be more in tune with each bead.

 

Inhale Before Moving the Bead: While inhaling, try to feel that bead in between your thumb and fingers while fully experiencing that single moment—the texture itself, as well as the sense of calm settling over you.

 

Exhale While Moving the Bead: On your exhale, gently rotate the bead, possibly pairing this movement with a mantra or just focusing on that breath. This rhythmic pattern keeps your mind occupied, thus minimizing the chances of it wandering away.

Hitting the Same Pace: There is no hurry; rather, it is to be deliberately slow. It's not about finishing the rounds as quickly as possible but actually savoring the bead, every breath, with patience. If your mind does stray or wander, you can gently guide it back to the bead and the breath itself.

 

Counting Mantras and Advancing Along the Mala
Traditionally, the mala is for counting the recitations of a mantra, but it can al()so work with the count of breaths or positive affirmations.

Choosing a Mantra

Choosing a Mantra: If you have a mantra to repeat with each bead such as, "Om" or "Om Mani Padme Hum," hold it as you pass each one. Without a mantra, you can simply focus on the breath or affirmation.

 

Moving Bead to Bead: Go on to the next bead after completing a full cycle of breath or mantra. This progress of slow, deliberate steps keeps anchoring you in the present moment.

 

Reaching the Guru Bead: When you've moved through all 108, you will come back to a guru bead; an oversized or more distinct bead, indicating that you've finished a fully processed cycle.

Completing Your Meditation

Ending a meditation session is yet as important as the meditation sessions themselves.

Pause at the Guru Bead: When you have reached the guru bead, just pause and have a moment. No matter how far that is, a cycle of 108 or other cycles. 

Further Reading and Conclusion
Following the steps mentioned, you have laid a strong foundation to use mala beads in your meditation practice. It is very likely that you will modify these steps further with time and experience to better suit your individual needs.

For advanced reading and more tips, you may go ahead and read the main pillar page "How to Use Mala Beads for Meditation and Mindfulness", or read other sub-pages like "Mala Beads and Mantras: How to Enhance Your Spiritual Practice." You will be progressing in the technique in this way so that mala meditation becomes a part of your spiritual and personal growth journey.

Get Your Meditation Mala Beads

Up to 50% OFF Discount

48.000+ Sold
Check Availability

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Mala Beads and why are they used?

Mala Beads are a traditional tool used in Hinduism, Buddhism, and other spiritual practices for meditation and prayer. A typical Mala consists of 108 beads, which are used to count mantras or affirmations during meditation. The number 108 holds spiritual significance in many cultures, symbolizing the connection between the physical and spiritual realms, the universe’s completeness, and the cycle of life, death, and rebirth. Mala Beads are designed to help users maintain focus and deepen their spiritual practices.

Why do Mala Beads have 108 beads, and what does it represent?

The number 108 is sacred in many Eastern traditions. In Buddhism and Hinduism, it represents several spiritual concepts. It is said to be the number of earthly desires or defilements, and reciting a mantra 108 times during meditation helps clear the mind and bring spiritual enlightenment. Additionally, 108 is seen as a symbol of the universe's wholeness, with 1 representing unity, 0 representing emptiness, and 8 representing infinity. The 108 beads in a Mala are used to help keep track of the mantra recitations.

How do I use Mala Beads for meditation?

Mala Beads can be made from a variety of materials, each carrying its own unique energy and healing properties. Common materials include:

  • Sandalwood: Known for its calming and grounding properties.
  • Rudraksha: Sacred seeds from the Rudraksha tree, often used in Hindu meditation practices.
  • Rose Quartz: Associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing.
  • Amethyst: Known for spiritual awareness and inner peace.
  • Wood, crystals, and gemstones: Different types of wood, as well as semi-precious stones and gemstones, are also commonly used in the creation of Mala Beads.

Each material can enhance a specific intention or practice, so it’s important to choose a Mala that resonates with your needs.

How can I make my own Mala Beads?

Making your own Mala Beads is a rewarding and personalized experience. To start, you'll need beads, a stringing material (such as silk cord or nylon thread), a needle, and a guru bead to finish the Mala. You can select beads based on the material that resonates with you (e.g., sandalwood, crystals, or gemstones) and determine the style you prefer (knotted or non-knotted). The process involves stringing the beads in a particular order, creating a knot between each bead if you’re making a knotted Mala, and finishing with the guru bead. There are numerous online tutorials and resources to guide you through the process, including our own step-by-step DIY guide.

Where can I buy authentic Mala Beads?

Authentic Mala Beads can be purchased from various reputable online stores, meditation supply shops, or specialized boutiques that focus on spiritual items. When buying Mala Beads, look for retailers that provide transparent information about the materials used and the source of the beads, especially if they are made from natural stones, wood, or sacred seeds. Many stores also offer handmade, customized Mala Beads to suit personal preferences. Additionally, you can find certified and genuine Mala Beads from experienced artisans at wellness and yoga retreats or spiritual marketplaces. Be cautious of mass-produced, low-quality alternatives, as authenticity is important for maintaining the spiritual energy of your Mala.

Any further questions?

If you have any more questions or need assistance, we’re here to help! Our goal is to provide you with the best possible information and customer service. Whether you’re looking for more details about Mala beads, need help with a purchase, or want to learn more about meditation practices, feel free to reach out to us directly.

You can contact us through our Contact Us page or email us at support@TashiThangka.com. 

We’re happy to assist with any queries you may have. Let us guide you on your spiritual and meditation journey!

Hurry up! Sale 50% OFF. Sale ends in:
00
Days
00
Hrs
00
Mins
00
Secs

Handcrafted with Care for Unique Quality

108 Beads Symbolize Spiritual Wholeness

Enhances Meditation and Mindfulness Practice

Perfect Gift for Loved Ones
Check Availability

30-day money back guarantee