Focus on Ayurveda: Mala Beads

The use of mala beads in Ayurvedic and Yogic meditation is strong, with the practice being used to aid concentration and deepen the meditation by reducing the chatter in the mind. They act as a physical anchor and can improve focus by 40% compared to meditation without tools.

In relation to the Ayurvedic tradition, the use of mala beads helps manage mental energy and focus which allows for a more profound meditation experience. This helps to balance the doshas (one of the three fundamental bio-energetic forces of Vata, Pitta and Kapha) by reducing mental stress.

Mala beads (mala in Sanskrit translates to the word garland) are often used to count repetition in spiritual practice such as Japa meditation, the practice of repeating a mantra.

Mala beads are thought to originate from India in the 8th century and are most seen in the form of a necklace or bracelet.

Necklaces would have 108 beads whilst bracelets have 54 beads, both are used to count 108 times using the repetition of the mantra to stable the mind as the finger glide from one bead to the next.

The relevance of the number 108 originates from the number of elements believed to make up the universe.

Once 108 times is completed, the mantra can be performed again and again to find inner peace and stillness.

If you have wondered what the tassel is on most sets of mala beads, it represents the lotus blossom, bringing enlightenment, connection to the divine and spiritual wellbeing to the mind, body and soul.

The tassel is often connected to a guru bead or meru bead in Sanskrit which is the starting point from where to count.

Avoid using the index finger on any of the beads as it represents the ego, and also never crossing the meru bead, which is the 109th bead and represents the starting and ending point for the meditation.

Once the meru bead is reached, pause, reflect, set intentions and show gratitude, then reverse the direction, being mindful to never cross the meru bead.

Mala beads are traditionally made from various woods or seeds, each providing a different meaning or power, for example:

The most spiritual being made from the Bodhi tree due to the Buddha finding enlightenment under the Bodhi Tree.

Rosewood beads are considered grounding, promoting inner calmness and stillness of the mind.

Sandalwood for positive energy, and calmness.

Although Mala beads don’t necessarily need to be used at all within a meditation practice, they can focus the mind and provide a more meditative state, leading to clarity, and focus with the practice.