What is a mala necklace?

A mala is a meditation necklace worn by yogis, Hindus, and Buddhists for thousands of years. It supports you on your spiritual path and helps you manifest your goals.

Origin and Meaning

The term "mala (माला, pronounced: mālā)" is Sanskrit and means something like "meditation wreath." The mala was given by ancient yoga masters to their students during a special ritual to support them on their path to enlightenment.

How do we meditate with a mala?

Mala necklaces are traditionally made from special materials and serve as an aid in japa meditation. In this form of meditation, a specific mantra or affirmation is spoken aloud and repeated over and over again. To ensure the meditator can fully concentrate on the mantra—and not be distracted by counting the repetitions—the mala serves as a counting aid. This allows for deeper meditation, and the resulting energy is "stored" directly in the chain.

The guru bead is an extra bead placed slightly offset. It is often made of a special material or has an ornament, such as a tassel. It is not used during meditation and serves to calm the flow of energy through the remaining beads. This prevents the energy from cyclically flowing through the mala. It also marks the start and end point of the meditation.

Sometimes beads of a different size/texture are inserted at positions 27, 54, 55, and 81. These serve as a kind of compass during meditation, allowing you to feel how many repetitions you have already completed and how long the meditation will last.

The mala as a piece of jewelry?

Although malas were traditionally used as prayer beads, don't let that deter you. You can wear them as a reminder of your positive intentions, regardless of your religion or lifestyle. Simply wearing a mala has a calming and positive effect on many people around the world. A mala is both a beautiful piece of jewelry and a companion on your path to more peace, serenity, and a positive life.

How do you wear a mala necklace in everyday life?

You can simply wear your mala around your neck or wrap it around your wrist several times. Many people also wear it under their clothes, directly against their skin and close to their heart.

You can wear your mala all day. However, you should remove it when washing or showering. The thread becomes less durable in moisture, and soap/perfume can make the beads brittle over time.

Theoretically, you can even wear your mala at night – but most people prefer to place it next to them on their bedside table or store it in a small wooden box.

And of course, you can also take your mala with you to your yoga practice – to help you focus and charge your necklace with your positive yogi energy. It's best to place the necklace on the floor, near the head of your mat. This way, you can always see it and it won't hinder your asanas.

Which beads are right for me?

The choice is yours – the possibilities are diverse and endless!

Either wooden or fruit beads form the base, or you can combine them freely according to your mood and taste. There is a selection of gemstones available that either represent the colors of the chakras (energy centers in the body), could match your zodiac sign, or simply suit you.

You can also choose freely as an intermediate and guru bead.

I usually like to use matching solitaire stones or silver elements for this.

A matching, handmade tassel can then be used to complete the look.

I would be happy to support you in your choice of beads and create YOUR MALA ;-)

Namaste, your Andrea