What Are Malas?
Malas first emerged over 3,000 years ago in India in Buddhist and Hindu prayer during ceremonial meditation called Japa. For thousands of years, yogis and spiritual enthusiasts have used Malas during meditation. Today they are commonly used for focus during meditation, yoga, and affirmations and sometimes even used as a mindfulness aid without any religious affiliation. A mala is first a string of beads, a tool to use for meditation or prayer, a necklace, a bracelet, or whatever intention you (the owner) has for it.
Why Do Mala Strands Have 108 Beads?
In the yogic tradition the beads are used in japamala practice to recite mantras in meditation (hence the name). A full cycle of 108 repetitions is counted on the mala so the practitioner can focus on the sounds, vibration and meaning of what is being said. Also, in yoga, the number 108 refers to spiritual completion. It is why japa malas are composed of 108 beads, why pranayama is often completed in cycles of 108, and why sun salutations are often performed in nine rounds of the 12 postures (totaling 108).
How Are Mala Beads Worn?
A mala may be worn however you feel most comfortable wearing it. They can be worn as long necklaces, or wrapped more than one around the neck. They can also be wrapped multiple times around the wrist as a bracelet. Traditionally malas are worn on your right wrist. Malas should never touch the ground. The belief is that touching the ground removes the energy and intentions you set in your mala. However this can be corrected by cleansing and recharging your mala.
How Do You Cleanse or Recharge Mala Beads?
There are lots of ways you can cleanse and recharge malas! Similarly to your favorite gemstones or crystals you can give your mala a bath in the sunlight or moonlight. A second simple way to cleanse and recharge is to burn white sage over your mala. A third method is to place your mala in a singing bowl and ring the edges. But, perhaps the most important thing to know about your mala is that it is yours to use how you choose in all respects including cleansing and recharging. Basically this means it is also up to you to choose how to cleanse and recharge--that might even be your own personal spell, speaking or thinking your intentions for your piece, or any other ritual that you assign to the cleansing and recharging of your mala.