Beautiful Indian handmade malas that I have encountered while traveling to Rishikesh a few years ago...

 

WHAT IS A MALA?

Mala is a Sanskrit word meaning “garland”. It represents a string of beads that has been used by sages and in Hinduism and Buddhism for spiritual aspirations. The mala is used to keep count of mantra repetitions (108 times), during meditation. It is also said to enhance spiritual virtues just by wearing it.

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HOW TO HOLD A MALA WHILE MEDITATING?

In hinduism, it is advised to meditate with malas held in the right hand (contrary to buddhism that uses only the left hand). In both traditions, they just consider the hand (right or left) more pure. In addition, in hinduism, it is preferable to hold the mala between the thumb and the middle finger, avoiding the index finger that is considered as being the ego. Once the mala is in place, just slide down bead by bead chanting the mantra on each bead.

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HOW TO CHOSE A MALA?

You will then find easily what mala resonates the most with you according to all, few or any of the below criteria.

• You can hold the mala, feel the vibration and see what kind of feelings you get

• Intuitively (just by choosing the one that you feel dragged to spontaneously)

• From the color (with color therapy)

• According to your astrological sign

• Depending on your chakra’s needs

• Depending on your triggers in life (physical, emotional and spiritual)

But even with of all the above, the main rule is…

 

 

YOU DON’T CHOOSE YOUR MALA, THE MALA CHOOSES YOU!