how to use a mala
Traditionally, malas are used during a meditation, but they are also often worn as jewelry - necklaces or wrapped bracelets - to remind you of your practice.
Clarify the intention of your practice and choose your intention or affirmation. In some traditions, a mantra (sacred sound) is given to you.
Find a quiet space and sit in a comfortable position with back support, if you're new to meditation, with your eyes closed. We recommend NOT to lie down (or you may fall asleep).
Take a few deep breaths to center and observe the speed and depth of your natural breath. Don't control it - just follow it for several cycles.
Bring your focus and attention onto your mantra/intention or affirmation. Remember a mantra is ANYTHING you repeat over and over. So it can be an English affirmation, a seed sound or Sanskrit. It does not matter what the language you use, as long as you are stating your affirmation with love.
Start with the bead next to the Guru bead. The Guru bead, which is bigger and represents "one's teacher," is the 109th bead at the bottom of the mala.
Hang the first mala bead gently on the middle or ring finger of your hand. Place your thumb on the guru bead, and use it to count each smaller bead, pulling it with the thumb towards you as you count, or repeat your mantra.
The Guru bead eventually becomes the last bead of your meditation.
Holding the Guru bead repeat your mantra and use the moment to set your intention.
If you want to continue, instead of passing over the Guru bead, simply reverse direction and begin again.
What is a Mala?
A mala is a strand of beads used as an aid for counting recitations, breaths, or mantras in spiritual practice. Its history spans several cultures and religious traditions were it evolved both as a practical tool and as a symbol of devotion, discipline, and meditation. Beyond counting, malas serve to root attention. The tactile act of passing beads through the fingers creates rhythm and anchors concentration.
Origins and early use
Early forms: Counting beads have been used worldwide for millennia to track prayers and rituals. The mala, as specifically recognized today, has roots in ancient India and is closely associated with the spiritual practices that developed there.
Buddhist adoption: Buddhism incorporated and popularized the mala in monastic and lay practice as the faith spread across Asia. The standard mala of 108 beads became widespread in many Buddhist schools, used for reciting mantras, and maintaining focus during meditation.
Christian adoption: Also use a strand of beads better known as a rosary to recite prayers,
Number and structure
108 beads: The most commonly cited number for mala beads is 108. Explanations for 108 vary—astronomical, mathematical, and spiritual interpretations exist. In many traditions it signifies completeness or the cosmic order.
