What is a Mala

(may also be referred to as Prayer Beads, Rosary Beads)

A mala is a set of prayer or rosary beads that is traditionally used for reciting prayers or mantras, which in turn disperses evil leaving a feeling of peace and tranquillity.

Malas have been used for many thousands of years in different religions, from Tibetan Buddhism to Hinduism and Christianity.  They are very often given as gifts for protection.

A full size mala would have 108 beads plus a Guru bead (the large finishing bead at the beginning/end, very often different from the others), although you will find shorter malas and wrist malas (sometimes called power beads) which may have less.  There are also many different styles and colours of mala from wooden beads to crystals.  Which one you choose is a matter of personal preference.

The concept of using your mala is the same no matter what style and how many beads there are.

Using your Mala

To use your mala start with the bead immediately after the Guru bead, gradually feeding the mala through your fingers (typically the left hand is used) moving from one bead to the next.

As you hold each bead recite your mantra or prayer, then move to the next bead and do the same, continue this all the way round the mala until you reach the Guru bead again then, if you have not completed reciting your mantra, reverse direction.  The Guru bead should not be crossed, this is believed to be a sign of respect, at this point reverse direction and continue reciting your mantra or prayer on each bead until you reach the Guru bead again.

Use your mala for reciting a mantra or prayer and/or in meditation to bring inner peace and tranquillity.

Mantras

I have listed below a few mantras that you may wish to use..

Om Mani Padme Hum

This mantra can be recited by all to compliment meditation practice, it assists in the removal of suffering and confusion experience by all in life.

Om Shree Ma-Ha Laksmi-Yei Swa Ha

Abundance - this mantra will bring you what you need such as good health, love etc.

Om Gum Ganapatayei Nahmaha

Moving obstacles - this mantra will assist in clearing obstacles in your life, thus helping you to move forward.

Recite your mantra 108 times in the morning and again in the evening, using the mala to count as you go.  This may seem a lot but once you are familiar with your mantra you will find it comes easily and naturally.

Looking after your Mala

Your mala should always be treated with care.  The beads can be wiped with a damp cloth if necessary and a crystal mala can be smudged in incense to cleanse it.