Malas have definitely become a part of the stylish yoga wardrobe in the Western world, but do you know the intention behind them and how to use one in your practice?
So what makes a mala traditional? For the purpose of mantra meditation it should be made up of 108 beads, a sacred number rooted deep in yoga and Hinduism. Smaller bracelets are oft made of a number which can be multiplied to reach 108 (i.e. 27). Many also include a larger guru bead or tassle, that sits at the bottom of the necklace when you are wearing it. The various gemstones used are also believed to hold different energies, meanings and properties that the wearer will experience.
How exactly do you use it to meditate? First find your comfortable seat for meditation. Hold the mala in your right hand, grasped between the index and middle finger. Shift one bead at a time towards you using your thumb, starting with the larger guru bead. This practice is traditionally done along with a mantra, which you repeat with each bead you pass, for 108 total times.
Now to find the right mala for you? I love the ones made by MalaRae! An Ottawa based company, using sustainably sourced beads. Each individual piece is handmade here in Canada with pure intention, since beads and malas hold the energy they come in contact with. They are knotted between each gemstone or bead. Completed pieces are cleansed with sage and charged in the moonlight before making their way to your home. And they are absolutely beautiful!
Since I love MalaRae and am confident you will too, I got you a special discount code to save 15% on your very own mala or bracelet! Head on over to the MalaRae site, find the gemstones that speak to you, and use code YWK15 to bring it home.
Happy Meditating!
Namaste,
Kassandra
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