How to use the Mala: Intro to Mala Beads

What’s a Mala

A Mala is a string of beads used to count mantras (Sanskrit prayers) in sets of 108 repetitions. There are several mala styles. Some malas are made with only 108 beads, a guru, and a tassel. Others have markers at 7 and/or 21 which make the piece useable in shorter mantra meditations. Here at Satori we have 21 beads mala with spacers/makers at every 7 beads. We also have 108 beads mala available upon order.

Malas are always made with round beads. These beads are usually 7-8mm in size or 10mm, and their shape allows them glide easily through your fingers. Traditional malas are made with Rudraksha beads, lotus seed beads, yak bone, Bodhi seeds, or wood. Healing malas are made from gemstones, which have different energies, properties, and colors. Our Malas are made out of natural stones. 108 mala beads can be worn as necklaces or as wrapped bracelets.

How to use your Mala

Hold your mala in your right hand. Start with the first bead next to the “guru” bead. Hold the bead between the index finger and thumb. Use your thumb to “count” each mantra by touching the bead during the recitation and then lightly pulling the bead towards you on completion and moving to the next bead.  The index finger is extended and should not touch the mala.  If you have a wrist mala of 27 beads you will need to repeat this 3 more times.  Continue by pulling the beads and going backwards until you again end at the meru and continue until you have done 108 repetitions, or multiples of 108. Once you reach the guru bead, If you want to continue the meditation, instead of passing over the guru bead , simply reverse direction and begin again, do not pass over the guru bead. (Crossing over the guru bead, it is like stepping over your teacher.)

How to handle your Mala

Mala beads are considered to be sacred and spiritual tools. It should not be placed on the floor or ground, thrown, have objects placed on top of it.

Your mala is sacred to you, and you should never let anyone else ever touch, wear or handle your mala. It is said that allowing others to touch your mala is inappropriate.