Tibetan Mala

What is a Tibetan Mala?

The word "Mala" means necklace or garland in Sanskrit, and refers to a strand or beads used for prayer. Malas are also used in a meditation practice as a tool to count mantras and acts as a tactile guide as you sit in silence.

Simply stated, mala beads are a set of beads traditionally used in prayer and meditation. More than just jewelry, malas are powerful and culturally-rich tools for meditation. We don’t believe you need to be religious or have a spiritual practice to wear mala beads—you can simply wear them as a reminder of personal intention you’ve set, or when seeking a calmer mind, body, and spirit.

Is it okay to wear male beads?

People often ask if it is OK to wear mala beads. You don't have to be a Buddhist to wear or use a mala. Malas are powerful tools for meditation and you can wear a mala to remind yourself of your intention to have a calm mind, body, and spirit and to benefit others.

How to activate mala beads?

A traditional mantra for activating and sealing in the energy in your new rudraksha mala is “Om Hrim Namah Shivaya Om.” Chant this mantra at least three times. Sit for at least five minutes to seal the energetic bond. Once you have activated your mala beads, you may want to cleanse and clean them from time to time

How to Choose, Use,and Cleanse your male beads?

Explore the realm of mindful possibility with your own set of mala beads.

Whether you’re looking for your first mala or you want to deepen your relationship to your existing piece, below you’ll find some of our favorite bits of mala wisdom.

It’s important to know that a mala represents something different to each person. It can be a tool for meditation, a reminder of an intention, a piece that inspires you, or a beautiful manifestation of a feeling. Whatever it means to you, stay open-minded and don’t judge or compare. Embrace your calling, and let it guide you in your choice. While there is no wrong way to choose your mala, we have a few questions to help you on your journey.

WHAT ARE YOU DRAWN TO?

We often tell people, “the mala that you’re drawn to first is the one you’re meant to have.” It truly can be that simple. Don’t resist the ease. Embrace it. Allow yourself to surrender and be led by your heart.

WHAT ARE YOU TRYING TO MANIFEST?

All of our mala beads carry their own intention. When searching for your perfect beads, we recommend you ask “What is my intention? What am I trying to manifest? Am I looking to cultivate more love in my life? More abundance? More strength?” Use the answers to gently fuel your decision.

WILL YOU BE MEDITATING, MANIFESTING, OR BOTH?

Will you use the beads for meditation? Or do you simply want a daily reminder of your intentions? The beads from Mala Collective are suitable for both. If you are looking specifically for meditation that’s wonderful! All of our necklaces are hand knotted, helping you to practice japa meditation (the practice of repeating your mantra with each mala bead) and have a total of 108 beads.

How to Use Your Mala Beads?

Mala beads are important mediums for peace and enlightenment. Traditionally, the beads have been used in prayer and meditation. If you choose to meditate on your mala, you will most likely use a mantra. A mantra is a word, sound, or phrase repeated to aid in your concentration. It can be as simple as the word “love,” something you are thankful for, or a sanskrit phrase such as “om shanti, shanti, shanti” which represents all encompassing peace.

Going all the way around your mala, you will eventually reach the guru bead—the bead that dangles from the mala. This signals a time for reflection. You can reflect on your meditation practice, give thanks to your mantra, honor your guru, or show yourself a moment of gratitude for slowing down to meditate. Never continue over the guru bead. Instead, turn around and continue in the opposite direction.

It’s widely believed that when one uses a mala for meditation, and makes it all the way around, they will have found enlightenment. If you choose to meditate on your mala, be patient and kind to yourself. Your mind will surely wander. The practice of bringing your attention back to your mantra and your beads is the practice of mindfulness. Do so with kindness and without judgement.

How to Cleanse Your Mala Beads?