The Ultimate Guide to 108 Mala Beads: Meaning, Benefits & How to Use for Meditation
Mala beads are more than just beautiful jewelry. For centuries, these strands of 108 beads have been used by yogis and spiritual seekers to count mantras, calm the mind, and connect with higher energies. Whether you are looking to deepen your meditation practice or simply seeking a daily reminder of peace, a Mala is a powerful tool.
But why are there exactly 108 beads? And how do you choose the right one for your energy? In this guide, we explore the ancient secrets of Tibetan Malas.
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What Are 108 Mala Beads? A Mala (Sanskrit for "garland") is a string of beads used in Japa Meditation to count mantras, prayers, or intentions. A traditional full-sized Mala consists of 108 beads and one larger "Guru Bead," which marks the start and end of the cycle.
Unlike mass-produced jewelry, authentic Tibetan Malas are often handcrafted from natural materials like Yak Bone, Bodhi Seeds, or Gemstones, each carrying distinct energetic properties.
The Spiritual Meaning of 108 Why 108? This number is considered sacred in Buddhism and Hinduism.
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1 stands for God or the Universe (the Higher Truth).
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0 stands for emptiness or humility in spiritual practice.
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8 stands for infinity and timelessness.
In Tibetan Buddhism, it is also believed that there are 108 earthly desires (or kleshas) that humans must overcome to achieve enlightenment. Chanting a mantra 108 times helps cleanse the mind of these distractions.
Top Benefits of Wearing Mala Beads
1. Relieving Anxiety & Stress In our fast-paced world, anxiety is a common struggle. Holding a Mala provides a tactile anchor ("grounding"), helping to shift your focus from worried thoughts to the physical sensation of the beads."Find peace with our Anxiety Relief Mala Beads"
2. Enhancing Meditation & Focus Using a Mala during meditation keeps the mind alert. The rhythmic movement of fingers over the beads creates a "flow state," making it easier to enter deep meditation.
3. Protection & Energy Clearing Many Malas, especially those made of specific crystals or blessed by high lamas, act as protective amulets against negative energies."View Protection Amulets & Thangkas"
How to Use Mala Beads for Meditation
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Find a quiet space and sit comfortably.
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Hold your Mala in your right hand, draped over your middle finger.
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Use your thumb to pull the beads towards you, one by one.
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Recite your mantra (such as Om Mani Padme Hum) for each bead.
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Pause at the Guru Bead. Do not cross it. Instead, flip the Mala around and start again if you wish to continue.
The "Buddhabelief" Difference: Why Blessing Matters Not all Malas are created equal. At Buddhabelief, every piece is not just jewelry—it is a spiritual instrument. Our Malas are hand-blessed by High Lamas in Tibet. This ritual of consecration instills the beads with positive vibrations, transforming them into powerful tools for wealth, protection, and peace.
When you wear a blessed Mala, you carry the energy of the temple with you, wherever you go.
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Caring for Your Mala Treat your Mala with respect. Store it in a clean pouch when not in use. To cleanse its energy, you can place it under moonlight or use Tibetan singing bowl vibrations.
(Conclusion) Whether you are drawn to them for meditation, fashion, or spiritual protection, a 108 Mala Bead necklace is a meaningful companion on your journey.
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