About Japamala (Mala)

History of Japamala or Mala

StylesbyPaula March 29 0 Comments

Mala beads, better known as prayer beads, came into existence in India during the eighth century. Used as talismans, they were first used for protection as well as amulets for luck and status symbols for wealth. Later during that period, people saw the significance of using Mala beads for bartering and trade. Significantly, prayer beads became important in the Christian, Islam, Buddhism, Muslim and Hinduism religions during the 17th century. Ireland, on the other hand, began using Mala...

Mala Beads and the Significance of Their Numbers

StylesbyPaula March 29 0 Comments

99 beads which are used In the Muslim faith, believe each bead represents the attributes or names of God. Greeks use Mala beads they call Kompoloi, or worry beads consisting of 17 to 23 beads. The Greek community use these beads to guard against bad luck, relaxation and the reduction of stress.

Benefits of Mala Beads

StylesbyPaula March 29 0 Comments

Mala beads have many spiritual traditions with powerful benefits for the mind, body and spirit. Mala beads may increase focus during mantra meditation. It is widely believed that physical contact with Mala beads will transfer their inherent healing powers.

Japamala Sizes and Length

StylesbyPaula April 04 0 Comments

The standard sizes for Mala beads used for Mala necklaces are 6 and 8 millimeters. While Mala bracelets can be made with 10- and 12-millimeter beads, doing so will make it extremely difficult for meditation. Mala beads should always be in proportion to the size of your fingers and the agility of your hands which is the best determining factor for acquiring the best bead size. For a wrist or bracelet, the circumference should always be one half inch larger that the size of your wrist.Gener...

The Guru

StylesbyPaula May 11 0 Comments

Some say the Mala Bead or Meru Bead which in translation means Mountain Bead, is the 109th bead of the Mala necklace. However, the Guru is not counted as part of the 108 beads. Traditionally used in Mala jewelry, the Guru signifies the end of one round in the prayer circle. The Guru Bead is not just to complete the prayer circle of your necklace, it is your teacher, and is said to hold your prayers and intention.

The Tassel

StylesbyPaula May 11 0 Comments

The Tassel is the symbol of growth and power as lotus flowers grow and push their way to the surface. The tassel gives the wearer a sense of inner strength and the ability to withstand everything that life may throw in your path.

Purifying Mala Beads and The Tassel

StylesbyPaula May 11 0 Comments

It’s extremely important to keep your Mala jewelry clean, and there is, of course, a specific way to do this. Soak your beads overnight. Use a delicate brush (a soft toothbrush is best) to scrub the beads and leave them to dry thoroughly and naturally. After your Mala is thoroughly dry using your soft brush, apply coconut or sandalwood oil. To freshen the tassel, it is suggested you wet the tassel and gently, using a small comb, carefully comb through the strands of the tassel.More i...

How to Choose Your Mala

StylesbyPaula May 11 0 Comments

As we’ve explained, Mala is both spiritual and extremely personal. Because Mala can be used as a tool for meditation, a reminder of an intention, a piece that inspires you, or a beautiful manifestation of your feelings, you should take a moment to understand just what you want your Mala to do for you. Generally speaking, the first Mala you are drawn to is the one you’re meant to have.Think about what your intention is and what you are trying to manifest. You may be looking to cultivate lo...

Symbolism of a Broken Mala

StylesbyPaula May 11 0 Comments

When your Mala breaks, it is believed it is a symbol of a broken cycle, meaning that your need for that particular Mala is no longer needed.  Symbolically, it means that it’s time to bring new intentions into your life as your current ones no longer serve you. This symbol is more a transition and a time to self-reflect. Know that when your Mala breaks, it is not a saddening occasion but an opportunity to determine what new intention you’re looking for. However, if your Mala breaks bef...

Types and Meanings of Mala Beads

StylesbyPaula May 11 0 Comments

While there are many beads which can be used for meditation, certain colors and precious stones have their own meanings that will be significant to the wearer and help to achieve a certain purpose to their meditation and their life.Gemstones have varying energy and healing properties. When you are selecting a bead for your meditation, you want to look for the ones that have properties that will benefit you the most. Are you meditating to reduce stress or increase creativity? There are stones tha...

Traditional Rules of Meditation

StylesbyPaula September 13 0 Comments

1. Keep your mala beads in a clean place, preferably on your altar or in a silk mala bag.2. Before wearing your mala, touch the guru bead on your bowed forehead, preferably at your third eye center.3. Do not ever allow anyone touch or use your mala.4. Avoid showing your mala to other people. More importantly, keep the guru bead hidden from view.5. Always remove your mala when defecating, sleeping or having intimate moments.6. It’s essential to keep your mala beads clean and well maintained. If ...