What Are “Mala Beads”?

As I list more items in my shop, you’ll surely see a few “Malas”. In case you don’t know what these are, let me share this wonderful concept with you.

Many cultures utilize this concept, especially within spiritual and/or religious context. Malas, specifically, originate in Buddhism as meditation & prayer beads. Typically, a mala is made of 108 beads, with an additional “guru bead” & a tassel. The beads are used as an abacus, to keep count of breaths or mantras. In other cultures, similar concepts are used such as with the Christian Rosary, & Pagan Prayer Beads.

I made one & began using them in my meditation practice as soon as I came across the idea. Personally, I usually use them to count my breaths, or to focus on a particular “vibe”. I’ve made different sizes, for different uses – My longer sets are stored on my meditation altar at home, while I wear smaller sets as bracelets for quick meditation sessions throughout the day, or just as a “reminder to be mindful”. Some are made of special beads for special purposes.

Mala beads can be a useful tool during mindfulness practice & meditation

If you practice meditation at all, I insist that it’s certainly worth having a set of Mala beads, if not several. I always welcome something new & refreshing to aid my focus, and my mala beads have been improving my practice for several years now. Make your own, or check out the ones available at my Etsy shop : Zen Blitz ❤