Insight into 108 Bead Malas and How to Use Them A 108 bead mala is basically a set of mantra counting beads. But, the question arises why it consists of 108 beads. Before knowing the meaning of the 108 beads mala, it is important to know that if the mala is used to count mantras, the mantra should be recited with devotion, feeling, sincerity and full attention. Reasons of 108 Beads in a Mala
Following are some prevalent reasons regarding the number ‘108’in a mala and other points of interest. Here, none of the reasons are being promoted as more or less truer than the others. 9 times 12: 9 times of 12 is 108. In many traditions, both of these numbers have spiritual significance. Harshad Number: Harshad which comes from Sanskrit means great joy. 108 is a Harshad number that is divisible by the sum of its digits. Lies: There is a belief that humans can only tell 108 lies. Desires: There is also a saying that there are only 108 earthly desires in mortals. Heart Chakra: There are total 108 energy lines joined together to form the heart chakra. It is considered the path to self-realization. Upanishads: According to the text of ancient sages, there are 108 Upanishads. Pranayam: At the time of meditation, if one will take 108 breaths in a day, enlightenment will come. Time: According to some sayings, there are 108 feelings with 36 related to the past, 36 related to the present and 36 related to the future. Sun and Earth: Here the diameter of sun is 108 times the diameter of earth. Astrology: There are 9 arc segments and 12 constellations. And, 9 times of 12 equals to 108. Dance: There are 108 dance forms in Indian tradition. Apart from these, there are also other reasons that give you the knowledge of 108 bead malas. How to Use the Mala Beads for Meditation
Malas are mainly used at the time of meditation. If you are doing yoga and meditation regularly, these may come in handy as a meditation aid. The traditional Rudraksha mala has been in use since the 10 th century in Hinduism and Buddhism. Take a look at the following points on how to use a mala: First of all, determine the intention of your practicing meditation and accordingly choose your mantras. Find a calm place and sit comfortably with a cross-legged position. Then observe the quickness of your breath. Subsequently, the mala should be hung gently on the ring or middle finger of right hand. Then the thumb should be placed on the beads and mantras should begin. Continue reciting the mantras until you reach a count of 108. A mala should be of good quality so that it can last long. The string of a mala should be of premium wire or thread. Store the mala in a fabric bag when not in use. Reduce your stress by doing meditation and yoga using the 108 beads mala. If you’re looking for top-quality 108 bead malas, then find them in many varieties at Sivalya.com. This online store sells genuine beaded yoga jewelry for women, handmade with devotion by artisans in Tibet. Here, you can choose from various sacred and powerful materials such as yak bone, tiger’s eye, Tibetan rosewood, rudraksha seeds, red coral, brown jasper, white conch shell, malachite, turquoise, and so on. These malas can prove to be great bohemian jewelry gifts for her. The website is also a great destination for spiritual home decor items like mandala tapestries, statues, wall arts, plants, and candles.