The Power of Mala Beads

The terms mala beads, rosary beads, prayer beads, or worry beads, often conjures images in our minds of holy men praying in silence with their heads bowed and a necklace to their forehead. What exactly are these necklaces used for? Where did they come from? And how can they help us in today’s world?

Mala beads specifically, have been around for thousands of years, dating back to ancient India and have deep roots in Hindu and Buddhist cultures. There are a variety of styles of mala beads, often made from different materials, each for a specific purpose. You can find these beaded necklaces made from precious stones, seeds, or wooden beads. There may be markers throughout the necklace to break the beads up into sections. There are countless styles such as 108 bead malas, half-mala styles (54 beads), even bracelet malas (27 beads), and more.

Today, we will be talking about the traditional 108 bead mala and its usefulness in today’s society. It’s hard to believe that something that is considered thousands of years old could have relevance in this day and age. However, there is a reason that an estimated two-thirds of the world’s population uses a variation of this tool in their daily lives. Mala beads have an uncanny ability to ground us, help us focus, and provide us with a physical aid to calm our inner mind.

Mala beads offer an opportunity for inner stillness. You can hold them in your hand and actively or passively count your breaths by rolling the beads through your fingers with each inhale and exhale. You can do something similar as you chant, recite mantras, or repeat affirmations. Even the material they are made from can keep you grounded in the present moment.

For example Rudraksha seeds have a porous surface, and when rolled between the fingers, can foster awareness by noticing the qualities of the texture. Sandalwood beads often have a subtle, rustic scent that can help you focus on the aroma instead of outside distractions. Rosewood beads can be visually stimulating with their deep red and dark brown hues swirling into one another. These can all be useful tools to help provide a sense of calmness and cultivate mindfulness without much effort.

So, if the thought of chanting for hours doesn’t resonate with you, you are not alone. Merely setting an intention while holding mala beads can serve as a reminder as you wear them around your neck or wrist throughout the day.

These are the moments that make an ancient tool a relevant one. You don’t have to be a monk, a guru, or a holy person to feel the positive effects of these traditions. You just need an open mind, and and open heart.

Namaste