How to Use a Mala

Mala beads are an important tool for anyone who wants to take meditation seriously and can be used in a variety of ways to support your practice.

If you are just beginning to use a Mala, hold it out in front of yourself so that you can get an idea about its shape, dimension, and parts. The parts of a Mala has their respective spiritual significance.

The tassel is a symbol of completion, signifying you’ve gone all the way around your Mala for one full meditation cycle. The guru bead represents wisdom and knowledge from deep within oneself as well as guidance received.

Aside from using the Mala as a necklace or a bracelet to benefit from the metaphysical properties of the stones or seeds, you may use it as a tool for breath control and meditation. You can use an Aventurine Mala to manifest abundance, a Black Tourmaline Mala for protection, or a Yellow Calcite Mala to grant your wishes. The Mala Tree has hundreds of these necklaces that you can choose from.

How to use a Mala? Read on.

A meditation session.


Breath Control

There are many ways to meditate, and one of the most simple ones is just paying attention to your breathing. It can be done anywhere, and your Mala can help you do this.

Pranayama is the practice of breath regulation that has been used for centuries. It’s an important component in yoga, which helps provide physical and mental wellness by strengthening inhale-exhale breathing patterns while also calming your nerves through various poses.

Here are the steps to use a Mala to control your breath:

1.     With one hand, hold your Mala.

2.     Let it hang down from your fingertips for easier manipulation. Place your thumb and middle finger around one of the beads next to the guru bead. Do not use the forefinger as it represents the ego, which is the main obstacle to enlightenment.

3.     Inhale and exhale.

4.     Slide your fingertips to the next bead, taking a breath in between each one.

5.     You need to finish with the guru bead. This will be 108 breaths.

6.     To do this process again if you like, just move your fingers the opposite way until you reach the guru bead.

The practice of meditation using a Mala can be done by anyone.
The practice of meditation using a Mala can be done by anyone.


Mantras and Affirmations

A meditation mantra is a phrase, word, or sound that you may use to assist you to focus your attention during meditation. “Om” is a popular one, but there are numerous others like “Om Shanti” or “Om Namah Shivaya.”

You may also make your own comforting or soothing mantra or affirmation like “I am calm,” “I am safe,” or “I am loved.”

The Mala Tree's bestselling Aventurine Classic 108 Japa Mala.
The Mala Tree’s bestselling Aventurine Classic 108 Japa Mala.

Here are the steps to use the Mala for Mantra Chanting:

1.     With one hand, hold your Mala.

2.     Let it hang down from your fingertips for easier manipulation. Place your thumb and middle finger around one of the beads next to the guru bead. Do not use the forefinger as it represents the ego, which is the main obstacle to enlightenment.

3.     Recite your preferred mantra or affirmation. You may say it softly, loudly, or keep it to yourself. It doesn’t matter how you do it as long as you feel comfortable with it.

4.     Slide your fingertips to the next bead, reciting the mantra or affirmation in between each one.

5.     You need to finish with the guru bead. This will be 108 breaths.

6.     To do this process again if you like, just move your fingers the opposite way until you reach the guru bead.

The Mala Tree's Mala necklaces are hand-knotted bead by bead. This method of construction ensures each bead stays securely in place and your Mala will last for many years of regular use. It gives the wearer tactile as well as visual connection with their mala.
The Mala Tree’s Mala necklaces are hand-knotted bead by bead. This method of construction ensures each bead stays securely in place and your necklace will last for many years of regular use. It gives the wearer tactile as well as visual connection with their mala.

Meditation by Holding

Mala beads are a great way to help you focus attention. Its feel and its subtle vibration can be calming, distracting your mind from thoughts to provide an escape for just enough time needed before returning with some mental regrouping at hand.

The rolling motion on these sacred strings helps remind us that we should always begin where our physical bodies end – whether they’re touching fingertips together or holding one string between two fingers. all energies flow towards their source no matter what form they take.

As they roll through your fingers and glide against one another it reminds us that we are not alone in this journey. Our thoughts don’t need their full attention just like our bodies do not require our 100% at all times.  Musing over these things brings about a sense of peace which allows for deep reflection while maintaining awareness throughout every moment, making mindfulness meditation much easier.

A Mala is a beautiful piece of jewelry that can be used for many purposes. It is a necklace that typically has 108 beads, plus a guru bead. The guru bead is larger than the other beads and is used as a focus point when reciting a mantra. Malas can be used to keep track of how many times you have recited a mantra, or they can be used as a tool to help you focus on your meditation practice. Additionally, Malas can be worn as a necklace to show your spiritual commitment.

Featured Mantra: “Om Mani Padme Hum”

“Om Mani Padme Hum” is one of the most well-known and beloved Buddhist mantras. This mantra is used as a tool for both devotion and meditation, and it can be chanted aloud or recited silently. But what does this mantra actually mean? Let’s take a closer look. 

Mantras

Mantras are powerful tools that can help to focus the mind and connect us with our highest selves. The word ‘mantra’ comes from the Sanskrit root man-, which means ‘to think.’ A mantra, then, is a sacred word or phrase that is used as a tool to focus the mind during meditation. 

Mantra for Chenrezig or Avalokiteshvara

“Om Mani Padme Hum” invokes the Avalokiteshvara (also known as Chenrezig in Tibetan Buddhism), the bodhisattva of compassion. Chenrezig is believed to be a manifestation of all the compassion of all the Buddhas, and by chanting his name we connect with this infinite compassion.  It is said to be the most essential mantra in Tibetan Buddhism. The meaning of the mantra is “praise to the jewel in the lotus,” or “hail to the jeweled lotus.” The lotus symbolizes purity and spiritual awakening, while the jewel represents the divine nature of the Buddha. Combined, they represent the path to enlightenment. This mantra is used for purification and to develop compassion.

The six syllables of this mantra represent the stages of Chenrezig’s path from self-centeredness to full Buddhahood: 

Om – represents Chenrezig’s holy body, speech, and mind 

Ma – represents Chenrezig’s perfect qualities 

Ni – represents Chenrezig’s great compassion 

Pad – represents Chenrezig’s purifying actions 

Me – represents Chenrezig’s wisdom realizing emptiness 

Hum – represents Chenrezig’s indestructible nature

The Deeper Meaning of Om Mani Padme Hum

While “Om Mani Padme Hum” is often chanted during meditation or prayer, its meaning goes much deeper than that. This mantra is a reminder that we are all connected, both to each other and to the divine. We are all striving for the same goal of peace and happiness. The next time you find yourself feeling lost or alone, remember these words. Chant them with intention and let their power wash over you. 

How to Use the Mantra

The best way to use this mantra is by repeating it 108 times. You can do this by chanting it, writing it down, or even saying it in your head. The number 108 has profound spiritual significance in both Hinduism and Buddhism. In Hinduism, there are 108 sacred names of God, and in Buddhism, there are 108 earthly desires. Chanting this mantra can help you to let go of your desires and focus on your connection with the divine.

There are many ways to incorporate “Om Mani Padme Hum” into your life. One of the simplest is to chant it whenever you need a mental break or a reminder of your connection to the universe. You can also use it as a focal point during meditation. If you’re feeling particularly stressed or anxious, try chanting it before bedtime or when you wake up in the morning. As you become more familiar with the mantra, you may even want to incorporate it into your daily practice. 

Benefits of Chanting Om Mani Padme Hum

According to Buddhist teachings, all the teachings of Buddha are contained in this one mantra. By chanting this mantra, you will receive all the benefits of the teachings. This includes developing more compassion, purifying your karma, and increasing your wisdom and abundance.

This mantra is a powerful tool that can help us to focus our minds and connect with our highest selves. If you are looking for a mantra to help you develop compassion and purify your karma, look no further than “Om Mani Padme Hum.” This beautiful Buddhist mantra has many benefits and can be chanted 108 times for added power. Give it a try today.

Gifting a Mala

It can be difficult to know what type of Mala beads will best fit the person you’re buying them for. You might feel like there are too many options, and they all look so beautiful and different!

There is one thing though: it doesn’t matter how fancy or simple a mala necklace’s design is. If it is meant as a gift, then every detail matters in that process. The meaning behind each Mala holds more significance than just aesthetics–depending on the journey of the intended recipient. Where should you begin? It’s really simple.

When you buy a Mala necklace for someone else, there are six things that should come into consideration.

INTENTION

A Mala is like a talisman for the wearer. It captures their intentions and helps them focus on what they want in life, no matter where it may take them or how long that journey might be!

Mala beads assist us in focusing our thoughts on a goal, so make sure you know where this person is currently in their life. What is their current state? What challenges do they face? What problems are they dealing with? 

What are the things they aspire for? What will make them happy? Wearing a mala is meant to record and keep an intention in mind. Wearing a mala is intended to preserve and record your intention.

APPEARANCE

After you have settled on an intention for the gift, it’s time to consider the physical attributes of the Mala. Some mala beads are strung with 100% gemstones, some with sacred seeds, and some styles have metal embellishments. There is also a variety of tassel colors. 

When it comes to appearance, one of the most crucial aspects to consider is “lifestyle.” Are they athletic? Do they participate in sports? Will they wear it casually or use it exclusively for meditation? Do they frequent the beach or the mountains? Match the Mala with the recipient’s lifestyle.

INTUITION

The final important consideration is your intuition, your gut feeling, and what your heart tells you to give. Go with what feels right at the moment. It is always a good idea to gift from the heart. The best gifts come from a place of love and connection. If you put thought into it and make sure the mala is coming from a good place, the person receiving it will feel that too! Mala beads are not just a piece of jewelry but rather personal amulets, each with its own special meaning. It is important to choose a mala that will resonate with the wearer on many different levels.

When you find the right mala, you’ll know it! There is no doubt about it. It will speak to you.

We hope this guide has been helpful in your search for the perfect mala gift! If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to us! We would be happy to assist you further.

After you’ve considered all variables, you’ll undoubtedly discover a mala that fits, resonates, and reflects your friend’s interests–something that they will really treasure because you have considered many things when you bought it.

What Does a Broken Mala Mean?

Eventually, every Mala will break. The question of how soon really depends on different factors: materials used and craftsmanship; your usage, care, and maintenance; and the state of your Karma.

Your personal Mala carries your intentions and mantras. It grows with you along with your journey. Of course, it is completely natural to feel a sense of loss and sadness as you witness beads of gemstones and crystals slip from the thread and scatter on the floor.

However, a Japa Mala breaking carries with it positive meanings. In Buddhism, it is understood as the release of Karma, freedom from a cycle of suffering, or a spiritual breakthrough. In the Yogic tradition, it means progression along one’s path—an opportunity to reflect upon blessings received.

This event is the perfect moment to reflect on the changes in your life. These changes may be dramatic or perhaps it simply passes subtly. Think about where you stand now—mentally, emotionally, and spiritually—versus the moment you first met your Mala. Let the questions listed below guide you.

• Have the goals I set with my mala and mantra practice come to fruition?

• Does it feel that I’ve already completed my mantra practice?

• Do I feel that I have overcome an obstacle?

• Do I feel released from a burden?

• Are there attachments in my life that I am ready to release?

• What is my new goal, direction, or perhaps a purpose to strive for in life?

• What are my uncertainties and anxieties when thinking about the future?

Should I replace or repair my broken Mala?

This is really up to you. It is a thing to consider if you feel that it was quite early for the Mala to break or that your mantra is not yet “complete.” You can go to The Mala Tree Crystal Shop to have it restrung. Nonetheless, the gemstone beads or sacred seeds your Mala is made of still have latent vibrations. You can still utilize them as talismans. It is recommended to have a set of beads made into a Mala to be strung only three times.

What should I do with the broken Mala if I decide not to restring it?

Tibetan Buddhism considers an irreparable Mala as a dharma waste and must be disposed. But this follows a ritual and is done with respect and care as they still carry blessings and positive energies.

You can place it on your altar as a reminder of your journey with it.

Also, as a reminder, you can repurpose it as an accessory.

You can also bring it back to mother nature by burying the beads, the thread, and the tassel.

When your personal Mala breaks, it is a moment for reflection and growth. It is an opportunity to assess where you are in your journey and what you need to do next. As with all things in life, change is inevitable–embrace it and allow yourself to grow along with your Japa Mala.

Japa Mala FAQ: Straight Answers to Important Questions

What is a Mala?

A Mala is a necklace or a string of beads used in Japa meditation. A full Mala has 108 beads. There are also Malas that are half that number as well as wrist Malas with 27 beads. It is a guide for counting every repetition of prayers, mantras, or breaths in meditation. Japa Mala beads are usually made of Rudraksha seeds and various healing crystals and gemstones, like clear quartz or amethyst.

When and where did Mala beads originate?

Japa Mala beads seem to have appeared somewhere around 8th century BCE in India. The word “Mala” is a Sanskrit term that means garland. Today, Mala is used mainly in religions, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Sikhism.         

Why 108 beads?

The number 108 has numerous symbolical associations. For one, there are 108 letters in the 108 alphabets. Vedic mathematicians use the number in many proportions. 108 also has a wide range of associations in Buddhist and Hindu religions. There are also 108 marmas or intersection points of energy lines in the body.

What does the guru bead stand for?

The bead connected to the tassel, called guru bead, serves as a reminder to pause and reflect in between rounds of Japa. It is not counted (it is the 109th bead) nor touched during prayer. It is believed to carry your energy from the meditation. Especially when it is made out of healing crystals and gemstones, it can remind you of your intention for practicing meditation.

What benefits does a Japa Mala bead bring?

The material used in a Japa Mala bead has properties that attune to metaphysical energies. Each healing crystal or gemstone is receptive of particular intentions. They can amplify the intention you are sending to the Universe, helping you making their manifestation into reality realizable.

Can I wear my Mala beads?

Yes, they can be worn both as a bracelet or necklace. Some display them while some wear them under clothing or put them in a pocket. Ideally, there is a separate Mala that you use exclusively for meditation that you don’t show to the public.

What are the benefits of wearing my Mala?

The healing crystal or gemstone which your Mala is made brings your intention. As such, it helps you direct your energy from the goal towards the fruition.

What is the proper way of doing a Japa Mala bead meditation?

Hold the Mala with your right hand with the thumb and middle finger touching the bead. The index is extended outward and should never touch the bead. One bead is one repetition of mantra or breath. Shift from one bead to the next towards your direction. The guru bead is not part of the count and shouldn’t be touched. Simply reverse the Mala at the 108th bead for another round of mantra.

I’m a leftie, can I use my left hand instead?

There is a tradition that the left hand is believed to be impure so the right hand is used. Nonetheless, you can always opt to use your dominant hand.

I missed a bead during Japa. What should I do?

You can either recite the number of mantras you’ve missed on a single bead, or you can add any left-out number of mantras at the 108th bead.

I’ve touched the guru bead during meditation. What should I do?

Getting used to your Japa Mala bead while meditating may take some time. Having a hard time avoiding the guru bead means that you have to focus more on your meditation.

How do I tap into the energy imbued in the Japa Mala bead’s material?

It is empowered through constant use. It is recommended that you meditate every day for 40 days straight when you receive your Mala for the first time. If you’re using it for the first time, make sure it is cleansed and blessed first. The Mala Tree Crystal Shop can do this for you. The healing crystals and gemstones will be on its full potential when it is regularly cleansed and programmed.

Top 6 Mantras and Mala Beads for Weight Loss

When it comes to weight loss, there are several powerful mantras and japa mala beads that can help you achieve your goals.   Sanskrit mantras have been used for centuries to promote physical and mental well-being. Meditation is often paired with the use of Sanskrit mantras to help the practitioner achieve a higher state of consciousness.

Mala beads are often used in mantra meditation. They are a string of 108 beads that are used to keep count of the mantras while meditating. Mala beads can also be worn as a bracelet or necklace.

Here are 6 mantras and mala beads that can help you lose weight:

Sanskrit Mantra #1: ” Om Namo Narayanaya”

This mantra is intended for self-realization and being one with the Divine. It helps to tap into your personal power so that you can make positive changes in your life. This includes changes like losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 

The recommended gemstone mala for this mantra is Rose Quartz, which is known as the “love stone.” It helps to open up the heart chakra and promote self-love. When you love yourself, it becomes easier to make healthy choices that are in line with your goals.

To properly recite this mantra, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Imagine sending love to the Universe, imagine it as a ray of light going above and then down and in all directions then finally comes back to you. As you recite the mantra, let the vibration of the words fill your entire being.

Sanskrit Mantra #2: “Om Shakti Om”

Shakti means “power” or “energy.” This mantra is all about tapping into your personal power so that you can make positive changes in your life. It’s about realizing that you have the ability to make changes in your life and achieve your goals.

The recommended gemstone mala for this mantra is Yellow Calcite, which is known as the “wish-granting stone.” It helps to increase motivation and inspire positive change. Yellow Calcite is also said to help with digestion problems and can assist you in your wealth loss journey.

To properly recite this mantra, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Begin by saying “om” out loud, then continue by reciting the rest of the mantra silently to yourself. Repeat this mantra as many times as you like.

Sanskrit Mantra #3: “Om Shrim Maha Lakshmyai Namah” 

This beautiful mantra is perfect for anyone who desires more abundance in their life—including abundance in the form of good health and healthy body weight. 

The recommended gemstone mala for this mantra is Tigers Eye, which is known as the “power stone.” It helps to increase strength and courage. Tigers Eye is also said to help with digestive issues and promote weight loss.

To properly recite this mantra, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. As you recite the mantra, visualize your fit self—the self that you know you can be. Repeat this mantra as many times as you like.

Sanskrit Mantra #4: “Om Kleem Krishnaya Namah”

This is a powerful mantra that invokes our inner spiritual energy. It is said to help us connect with our higher selves so that we can make positive changes in our lives. It helps to increase motivation and vitality. Carnelian is This powerful mantra can help you tap into those same energies so that you can love yourself enough to make healthy choices and achieve your goals. 

The recommended gemstone mala for this mantra is Red Jasper, which is known as an “energy stone.” It helps to increase energy and promote vitality. Red Jasper is said to help with weight loss by boosting metabolism.

To properly recite this mantra, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Repeat the mantra out loud or silently to yourself. As you recite the mantra, visualize yourself surrounded by love and light.

Sanskrit Mantra #5: “Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya” 

This mantra is perfect for anyone who wants focus and be determined to accomplish their goals. This mantra is all about connecting with your personal power and using it to achieve your goals. It’s about understanding that you have the ability to make changes in your life and achieve your dreams.

The recommended gemstone mala for this mantra is Garnet, which is known as the “stone of commitment.” It helps to increase motivation and inspire love and passion. Garnet is also said to help with digestive issues and promote weight loss.

To properly recite this mantra, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Repeat the mantra out loud or silently to yourself. As you recite the mantra, visualize yourself surrounded by love and light. Let the vibration of the words fill your entire being.

Sanskrit Mantra #6: “Om Varunaya Namah”

This mantra is perfect for anyone who is looking to improve their health and well-being. It is a powerful mantra that can help to detoxify the body and promote weight loss by maintaining the water balance in the body. It is also said to help with digestive issues.

The recommended gemstone mala for this mantra is Apatite, which is known as the “stone of Manifestation.” It helps to increase motivation and inspire creativity. Apatite is a highly recommended gemstone for weight loss as it helps to suppress appetite.

To properly recite this mantra, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Imagine all the water in your body dispelling the bad elements that are making you sick or overweight. Repeat the mantra out loud or silently to yourself. As you recite the mantra, visualize an energy field going inside your body and flushing out all the toxins.

These are just a few of the many powerful Sanskrit mantras that can help you on your journey to health and wellness. Choose the mantra that resonates with you the most, and recite it as often as you like. You may be surprised at how quickly you begin to see results.

In addition to Sanskrit mantras, another powerful tool for weight loss is Mala beads. Mala beads are traditionally worn as a necklace or bracelet. They are believed to have a variety of benefits, including promoting tranquility, improving focus, and increasing motivation.

Tibetan Feng Shui and Mala Prayer Beads

Tibetan Feng Shui is the ancient art and science of creating sacred space. In the West, we often think of Feng Shui as simply the placement of objects in a room to create harmony and balance. But in its truest form, Feng Shui is so much more than that. It is the practice of aligning our energy with the energy of the cosmos so that we may live in harmony with all beings.

Tibetan Feng Shui is based on the belief that everything in our world is connected to energy. This includes our homes, workplaces, and even our belongings. By using Feng Shui principles, we can create harmony and balance in our lives. Feng Shui can also be used to improve our health, wealth, and relationships.

One of the most important aspects of Tibetan feng shui is the use of Tibetan-Style Mala prayer beads. Malas are traditionally made from 108 beads, and they are used as a tool for meditation, helping us to focus our minds and connect with our highest selves. In addition, they are believed to have the power to absorb negative energy and transfer positive vibes, making them a powerful tool for creating good Feng Shui.

The History of Mala Prayer Beads

Mala prayer beads have been used for centuries by Tibetan monks. The mala is used as a tool to help focus the mind during meditation and prayer. The mala is held in the right hand and the thumb is used to rotate each bead clockwise. As each bead is rotated, a mantra is recited. Mantras are sounds or words that are repeated over and over again in order to achieve a certain goal. The Tibetan Mala is different from the Indian Mala. The Tibetan Mala has markers on every 27th bead signifying the change of a life cycle.

Tibetan Style Orange Aventurine Om Mala

The Power of Mala Prayer Beads

Mala prayer beads are believed to have many spiritual and healing powers. They are said to absorb negative energy and transfer positive energy. They are also thought to promote peace, love, and compassion. Malas can be used for protection, healing, and abundance.

Tibetan Style TERAHERTZ Mala with Golden Guru Bead

How to Use Mala Prayer Beads

There are many different ways to use mala prayer beads. You can wear them as a necklace or bracelet, or carry them in your pocket. You can also place them in your home or office as an auspicious decoration.

Tibetan-Style MADAGASCAR ROSE QUARTZ with Gold Mala

How to Use Mala Prayer Beads for Good Feng Shui

There are many ways to use Mala prayer beads for good Feng Shui. Here are just a few:

1. Hang them somewhere high. This will help to attract positive energy into your space.

2. Place them on your Feng Shui altar or sacred space. This will create a focal point for your meditation practice and help you to feel more connected to your spiritual path.

3. Wear them as a bracelet or necklace. This will keep their positive energy close to your body and serve as a reminder to stay mindful throughout the day.

4. Give them as a gift. This is a wonderful way to share their power with people you value.

Tibetan Feng Shui is a powerful practice that can be used to improve your life in many ways. The use of mala prayer beads is just one of the many ways you can benefit from this ancient art. By incorporating them into your life, you can create more harmony, balance, peace, and abundance.

Caring for Your Mala

A Mala is a wonderful way to keep your truth, objectives, and divinity alive in your daily life and rituals. Wearing a Mala allows you to have a tangible reminder of your connection with the Universe around your neck at all times, as well as to connect with sacred energy when using it for prayer or mantra meditation.

In the Mala and gemstone world, “Cleansing” and “Cleaning” are different words with different meanings. Cleansing means to cleanse the Mala of negativity and has a spiritual purpose, whereas cleaning just means cleaning it of dirt, dust, or grime.

It is important to make a calm intent when cleansing and cleaning the Mala. We suggest not to do these if you feel anger, frustration, or irritation at either yourself or someone else.

Once you are in a calm and collected state, and you feel positive, you can begin cleansing or cleaning your Mala.

Mala Cleansing

You may want to cleanse and clean your Mala beads from time to time once you’ve activated them. The belief is that the beads absorb and store energy, thus you may wish to cleanse your Mala beads at certain intervals. 

We advise against loaning or giving your personal Mala to others since you would be transferring energy.

Cleansing is an important part of caring for your Mala. It not only removes the negativity that has built up on it over time but also infuses the Mala with fresh and beautiful energy, which in turn makes you feel refreshed and new.

There are a few ways to cleanse your Mala. Some good and “safe” ways we recommend are:

  • Placing the Mala in the moonlight
  • Burning incense around your Mala
  • Placing your Mala in a singing bowl and ringing the edges, or lightly tapping its side to excite the sound inside

There are also other ways of cleansing your Mala, but you have to research further if the gemstones that were used to string the Mala are sensitive to these cleansing processes:

  • Place the Mala in a body of water if the Mala is made from genuine Rudraksha or other sacred seeds, but not for a long time. Just set your intentions and then remove the Mala from the water.
  • You may also do this with gemstones that are not sensitive to water. We advise not to get the following gemstones wet: Selenite, Fluorite, Calcite, Moonstone, Kyanite, Kunzite, Angelite, Malachite, Lepidolite, Rhodocrosite, Hematite, Jade, Black Tourmaline, Labradorite, and Ammolite.
  • You may also use sunlight in cleansing your seed or wood Mala Beads, but for gemstones, be careful as some stones should not be exposed to the sun or strong heat because their colors will fade: Apatite, Beryl, Calcite, Amazonite, Fluorite, Aquamarine, Beryl, Sapphire, Lepidolite, Pyrite, Sodalite, Spinel, Kunzite, Topaz, Tourmaline (Pink, Red), Super Seven, and Quartz-based crystals like Aventurine, Citrine, Smokey Quartz, Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Chrysoprase, and Agate. Clear Quartz can break when exposed to direct sunlight for more than two hours.

All of The Mala Tree’s Mala Beads, gemstones, and products are cleansed and programmed using our signature three-way cleansing method.

Mala Cleaning

You may also wish to clean your Mala from time to time.

For those who wear them every day, a Mala is much like wearing an old friend around your neck—it has seen you through the good times and bad ones. However if for some reason they start getting dirty, then proper cleaning can restore life back into this sacred spiritual tool.

A good all-around cleaning method is by just using a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt or oils from your Mala beads. Or try wiping in a downward/outward motion to take away negative energy toward the ground. 

This method is good especially if your Mala is constructed using gemstones that are sensitive to water.

For a Mala necklace that was strung with water-SAFE gemstones (Clear Quartz, Rose Quartz, Amethyst, Smokey Quartz, Citrine, Agate, Carnelian (though NOT safe in saltwater), Rutilated Quartz, Jaspers, Tiger’s Eye, Aventurine, Black Obsidian (no extreme cold or hot water)

Place the Mala in warm water. You can also add a mild soap if you wish, soak for some time (We clean our personal Mala this way for 1 or 2 hours). Hang it to dry. 

You may also use water that has been charged with Feng Shui for cleansing, too! Just set out a glass bowl filled with fresh spring water overnight in the moonlight and pour it into another container in the morning for Mala cleaning use.

This is a tradition from ancient times when water was considered to be highly spiritual. Water has been used in purification rituals for thousands of years and we believe that we can easily transfer our positive intentions through the water.

Caring for the Tassel

A beautiful Mala is great for your spiritual practice but it can also get a little tatty after repeated wear. You may want to spruce up the look of your Mala by freshening up its tassel, and one way this might be done would be by wetting them slightly before gently combing it with your hand while they’re still damp with water- as if giving it an extra blessing.

You can also use a mild soap and water mix to clean the tassel. Just allow it to dry fully overnight.

Featured Mantra: “Om Namah Shivaya”

One of the most popular mantras in yoga is “Om Namah Shivaya.” This mantra is often chanted during meditation or as a way to connect with the divine.

What does “Om Namah Shivaya” mean?

“Om” is a sacred sound that is often used at the beginning and end of yoga practices. It is a representation of the infinite universe. “Namah” means “to bow or homage.” “Shivaya” comes from “Shiva,” which is one of the main Hindu deities. Shiva is one of the most important deities in Hinduism and yogic tradition. He is known as the destroyer, but this doesn’t mean that he destroys in a negative way. Rather, he destroys old patterns and ways of being that no longer serve us so that we can make space for new growth. For this reason, chanting Om Namah Shivaya can be a way of asking for Shiva’s help in letting go of what is no longer serving us and making space for something new.

The Deeper Meaning of “Om Namah Shivaya”

This mantra can be translated to mean “I honor the divine within me.” When you chant this mantra, you are honoring your highest self. This can be a powerful way to connect with your innermost thoughts and feelings. This mantra is still widely used today by yoga practitioners and those who seek blessings and protection from harm.

The Benefits of Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya”

When you chant Om Namah Shivaya, you open yourself up to blessings from the Universe. You clear away your egoic mind so that you can connect with your true nature. This true nature is full of love, light, and peace. When you connect with your true nature, you open yourself up to limitless possibilities. All of your Unrealized Potential becomes Realized Potential. All things are possible when we connect with our highest selves. 

A Mala by The Mala Tree made from Rudraksha, a seed that represents the tears of Shiva.

Chanting “Om Namah Shivaya” with a Mala Set with Your Intentions

Om Namah Shivaya is more than just a sound or a set of words. It is a gateway into another realm altogether. When you chant this mantra with intention, you are tapping into something much bigger than yourself. Chanting this mantra with a mala allows you to access divine energy and tap into your potential for greatness.

The next time you find yourself feeling lost or uncertain, try chanting Om Namah Shivaya. This powerful mantra can help you connect with your highest self so that you can access your Unrealized Potential and tap into your greatness. By opening yourself up to divine energy and setting an intention for what you wish to receive, you allow limitless possibilities to unfold in your life! So go ahead and give it a try! See what happens when you chant Om Namah Shivaya with intention. You may be surprised by what unfolds.

Yoga Fashion: 7 Must-Haves

Yoga fashion has come a long way in recent years. Once upon a time, yoga clothes were mostly utilitarian and designed for function over style. But now, there are so many cute and trendy yoga clothes available that it’s easy to find something to suit your personal taste.

Whether you’re looking for yoga pants, a yoga top, a yoga bag, or anything else related to yoga fashion, there are plenty of options to choose from. And the best part is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to get some great yoga clothes.

Here are the fashion must-haves for anyone who is planning to practice Yoga:

1) Yoga pants

Yoga pants are a must-have for any yoga practice. They’re comfortable, they look good, and they’re easy to move in. There are lots of different styles of yoga pants available, so you can choose the ones that best suit your body type and personal style.

2) Yoga top

A yoga top is another essential piece of yoga clothing. It should be comfortable and flattering, and it should help you stay cool during your yoga practice. There are lots of different styles of yoga tops available, so you can find the perfect one to match your yoga pants.

3) Yoga bag

A yoga bag is essential for carrying your yoga mat, yoga props, and anything else you need for your yoga practice. There are lots of different styles of yoga bags available, so you can find the perfect one to match your personal style.

4) Yoga mat

A yoga mat is an important part of any yogi’s practice. It provides a cushioned surface to practice on, and it helps you stay aligned during your yoga poses. There are lots of different styles of yoga mats available, so you can find the perfect one to match your personal style.

5) Yoga props

Yoga props, such as yoga blocks and yoga straps, can be used to help you deepen your yoga poses and achieve better alignment. There are lots of different styles of yoga props available, so you can find the perfect ones to match your personal style.

6) Yoga mala beads

Yoga mala beads are a beautiful and meaningful addition to your yoga wardrobe. They can be worn as a necklace or bracelets, and they have a deep symbolic meaning. Yoga involves meditation, and mala beads can be used as a tool to help you focus on your mantra.

7) Yoga jewelry

Yoga jewelry is the perfect way to accessorize your yoga outfit. It can be worn as a necklace, bracelet, or ring, and it adds a touch of personal style to your yoga look. There are lots of different styles of yoga jewelry available, so you can find the perfect pieces to match your personal style.

Yoga fashion has come a long way in recent years, and there are now lots of stylish and affordable yoga clothes available. So get out there and start shopping for your perfect yoga outfit!

Whether you’re a yoga beginner or a seasoned pro, these seven fashion must-haves will help you look and feel your best during your yoga practice. So get out there and start shopping for your perfect yoga outfit today!