05/04/2018
Mystic Minds are thrilled to offer these Gemstone 108 Bead Mala Bracelets.
£10.99 Free P&P in UK only
What Are Mala Beads & How Do I Use Them?
More than just beautiful adornment, malas are powerful and symbolic tools for meditation.
Mala beads are a useful and beautiful tool used for meditation. They can be worn as a necklace or a bracelet, and have 108 mala beads on each strand, though other numbers may be used. They are used to count breaths or the number of times a mantra is repeated by running your fingers over the beads.
These gorgeous mala beads are actually more than a fashion statement. These strings of beads are actually a traditional tool of meditation and prayer used by a variety of cultures across the world. Used for japa meditation, where the focus is on repeating a mantra or word, you may find mala to be a useful addition to your meditation practice.
The mala itself usually has 108 beads and is used during meditation as a way to count of repetitions or breaths. The beads can be made from a variety of woods or gemstones. The different stones and colors can have meanings and intentions associated with them. Most malas have a tassel or guru bead (aka sumeru, bindu, or stupa). This is to mark the beginning and the end of your meditation. In addition to being a counting tool, malas are helpful to keep your mind focused and help guide your attention if your mind drifts.
Malas can be worn as a necklace or a bracelet and have become a trendy fashion accessory.
How to Use Mala Beads for Meditation
Once you’ve mastered the basics of meditation, it’s easy to incorporate mala into your practice. They can be used in any meditation position, without or without the assistance of a bench or chair. Just read the steps below to help you.
Take your normal sitting or kneeling position for meditation.
Decide on the mantra you will be meditating on and how many repetitions you want to achieve.
Using your right hand, drape the beads over either your middle finger or the ring finger.
Repeat the mantra in your mind, drawing the mala toward you with your thumb.
One bead equals one repetition.When you reach the guru bead, that counts as 100 repetitions.
You should not cross the guru bead, so to continue your meditation you will rotate the mala.
To do this with one hand, grasp the final bead with your thumb and pointer finger (if draping over the middle finger) or middle finger (if draping over the ring finger).
Slide the draped finger out and insert it from the other side.
How to Select a Mantra for Japa Meditation
Mantra means “word” in Hindu and it’s exactly that. A mantra is a word or phrase that you focus on during your meditation. Some people believe that only certain words can be used as a mantra for meditation, but I believe that you can focus on any word or phrase that bring positive or calming energy to you. If there’s a certain area of your life you’re looking to improve, you can choose a mantra related to that. If you’re stuck for an idea, here are some mantras you can try:
Om – This is one of the most well-known mantras, the one common folks think of when they imagine monks meditating. Om is a sacred sound and used as a mantra in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. In Hinduism, om refers to the self or soul (Atman) and the divine truth or reality (Brahman). It can be used on its own or is often used at the beginning of mantras.
Sat Nam – This Gurmukhi mantra translates to “Truth is my name.” When spoken in the mind, the “Sat” should be held eight times longer than “Nam.” This mantra will help you find your intuition and can invigorate sexual energy if focused on daily.
Neti-Neti – This Sanskirt phrase translates to “not this, not this” or “neither this, nor that.” This mantra is good for negating something in your life, whether it’s a situation, a feeling, or something you want to change.
Here a just a few of the different coloured gemstones and meanings for mala beads to hopefully help with your choice.
Rose Quartz – Truth. Harmony. Encourages unconditional love. Purifies and opens the heart. Promotes love, self-love, and friendship. Provides comfort in grief. Dispels negativity.
Lapis Lazuli – Promotes inner truth, self-awareness, and self-expression. Stimulates the mind for clear thoughts and ease of decisions. Releases stress and eases depression. Balances the throat chakra.
Amethyst – Memory enhancer, motivator, tranquilizer. Protective. Balancing. Enhances memory. Relieves insomnia. Soothes and counteracts negative emotions like stress, anxiety, sadness, grief. Good for people dealing with high stress, anxiety, and depression. Also helpful for people dealing with addictions. Makes a nice gift for travelers and soldiers, as it’s said to protect from harm and attack. Stimulates the third eye chakra.
Black Onyx – Protection, strength, good fortune, vigor and health. Black onyx banishes griefs and promotes self control. In addition to balancing the energies of the body, this mala promotes healthy bodies and increased stamina.
Clear Quartz – Amplifies other crystals and heals, drawing off negative energy. Cleanses the mind and body. Extremely beneficial for meditation.
Tiger Eye – Protecting and grounding. Increases confidence, helps to recognize talent and faults. Inspires you to accomplish goals.
Green Jade – Soothes the mind, releases negativity, and stabilizes the personality. Stimulates ideas. Inspires insightful dreams. Attracts good luck and friendship. Balances the heart chakra.
Well I hope the above helps someway in making your decision and if you have any queries please feel free to contact me.
