Do you own a set of mala beads? I have several sets, but my favorites are made from the traditional material of sandalwood. Historically, malas were made from organic wood, seeds, or animal bones. Now they are made from many more materials. Mala is a Sanskrit name meaning “meditation garland”. There are several modern-day reasons to apply the ancient use of mala beads: to help overcome anxiety and worry, where you focus only on the moment of now... to increase feelings of being worthy, compassion and love... To find value in being better and better. So, areas of confidence and success... to increase creativity and passion flowing with the universe... for grounding and centering, becoming confident and wholly connected with Mother Earth... to regulate breathwork and balance, promoting harmony and peace...to feel supported in life's journey to feel protection. So, mala beads are not just a trendy fashion accessory, but also a useful emotional and mental vibrationary health tool.
Hinduism, Buddhism, Catholicism and various other religions around the world use these beads for spiritual connection or prayer. The traditional mala strand has 108 beads, and one head or a guru marker bead to indicate the beginning and the end. There are several interpretations of why the number 108 is sacred. Many of them have to do with wholeness, and the connection of sun, moon and Earth, which is 108 times their diameter. The tassel is a symbol of spiritual connection, and it can also be used to diffuse essential oils. In some patterns, there is a counter bead every 27th bead. And if a detailed mantra needs to be repeated, again and again that 27th bead becomes a marker, or a reminder that you're on a new set. A newly purchased set of beads can be cleansed by setting them in the sunshine for a few hours and then activating them by fingering each bead at least once and setting the intention that the beads work for your greatest good and focus. A more traditional activation would be to light a candle and when touching each bead, breathe in through the nose and then tone “OM” the outbreath om being the sound of creation and the circle of life being the chain of beads. Let the strand rest gently in your palm and use your thumb and forefinger or your thumb, forefinger and middle finger to finger each bead and then pull the thread towards your body as you finish each cycle of all pulling the beads towards you, represents pulling in the focused good karma, pulling in the good energy in the process. This episode goes on to describe 5 specific ways to use mala beads and the characteristics of several gemstone malas for enhanced intention setting.
So, explore mala beads and their power to help call clarity and focus into your life. Call in enhanced meditation! “Call IT in with Dar!”
Full Show Notes can be found at CallITInPodcast.com
Photo credit: Rebecca Lange Photography
Music credit: Kevin MacLeod Incompetech.com (licensed under Creative Commons)
Production credit: Erin Schenke @ Emerald Support Services LLC.
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