7 Types Mala of Traditional Beads

Japa malas have been used by thousands of meditators to improve focus and remain present during meditation. Japa malas have a long history of being practical, beautiful, and most importantly, easy to use. Although most malas have 108 beads strung, they are not the same. Malas are unique because of the people who use them. They come in a variety of sizes and colors. You can make them with or without knots. The most important difference is the bead material.

There are many types of mala beads available, including large and small. Although malas can be made from any material, including seeds and stone, some materials are more well-known than others. Continue reading to find out more about the traditional mala beads materials and their unique qualities and meanings.

Rudraksha Beads Malas

Rudraksha seeds, which are one of the most beloved mala beads, have been used for thousands of years by monks and gurus. Rudraksha is considered sacred and is a great choice for meditation. They protect against negative energy and offer protection. They also bring prosperity and peace to their wearer. The naturally pockmarked and pitted surface of Rudraksha seeds creates a unique feeling for meditation. It helps ground you in the moment. Rudraksha seeds, which are light-weight and come in a variety of sizes, can be worn directly against your skin to absorb their energies.

Bone Malas

Bones malas symbolize impermanence. They remind us that no one is immortal and we need to live in the moment with mindfulness and compassion. Bone is a common material for malas. Malas made from bones from Nepali and Tibetan oxen, water buffalo, and other animals are common. This is due in part to the traditional lifestyles of these areas, where livestock is an essential part of people’s daily lives. The bones of animals that were raised to provide sustenance is a way to reduce waste and allow the animals’ lives to continue. You can easily find ethically made bone malas from Nepal and Tibet due to the strong Buddhist influence. Bone beads can be striking and stark, often looking like skulls. This is yet another reminder of the transitory nature of life.

Sandalwood Malas

Sandalwood mala beads made from sandalwood wood are carved using the wood of sandalwood trees, which grow naturally in Asia and East India. Sandalwood has been revered in many traditions and is used in Hindu and Buddhist ceremonies. Sandalwood malas are believed to help you meditate, bring you closer to God, calm your mind, and stimulate your Third Eye Chakra. Sandalwood malas have a delicate scent that is both sweet and spicy, because sandalwood is naturally fragrant. This distinctive scent is one of the most valuable aspects of sandalwood. It is believed to promote tranquility and mindfulness during meditation. Sandalwood beads are a great option for those who enjoy a more fragrant meditation or want to feel more grounded by the scent.

Rosewood Malas

Rosewood, a precious wood from India, has been used for making Buddhist rosaries for many years. The wood’s striking, dark color is associated with protection and grounding. Rosewood beads can be used to meditate and dispel negative vibes. Rosewood, which is connected to the divine goddess energy, is also associated the Heart Chakra, the center of compassion, love and forgiveness in the body. Rosewood mala beads can be used to open up your heart and create loving relationships. Rosewood beads are incredibly light and smooth, making them a great choice for both beginners and experienced meditators.

Lava Stone Malas

Lava stone mala beads made from volcanic rock are formed when moltenlava cools and hardens to a striking blackstone. As lava stone is associated with the Root Chakra (the body’s center for strength and balance), it is a popular choice for those looking to find stability. Meditation with lava stones is believed to ground the spirit in earth’s healing energies. Contrary to wood beads which have a smoother surface, lava stones has a rougher texture. Its rough exterior is a welcome addition to the hands, and can be used to increase awareness when breathing. The porous nature of lava stone makes it a natural oil diffuser. Simply add a few drops to your lava stones mala and you can transform your meditation into an aromatherapy experience.

Lotus Seed Malas

The lotus flower is one the most beloved symbols of Eastern spirituality. The lotus flower must grow naturally in ponds. It must fight through mud and muck before it can rise above the water to blossom in the sun. This miraculous transformation has been a symbol of purity, spiritual growth and victory over all obstacles for a long time. Lotus seed malas are a reminder of the lotus’s inspirational journey. They also remind you that even the most difficult circumstances can produce the most beautiful blooms. Lotus seed malas, which are light and smooth, serve as a powerful reminder about your inherent strength and resilience.

Bodhi Seed Malas

Bodhi seed beads can actually be described as Ficus religiosa seeds, which are fig trees that grow in India and Southeast Asia. Bodhi seeds have a significant symbol in Buddhism and are considered auspicious. Legend has it that the Buddha sought enlightenment when he was a young man and vowed to meditate beneath a fig tree until finding the solution to all of humanity’s problems. He finally reached enlightenment after 49 days. Later, the tree he sat beneath was honored as the original Bodhi Tree . Bodhi is Sanskrit for enlightenment.

Bodhi seeds malas can be a wonderful way to honor this story, and to help you fuel your spiritual practice with the same patience and dedication. Bodhi seed beads come in a variety of sizes and have traces of small cracks and grooves which give your mala an earthy appeal.

It’s important to remember that there is no “right” mala. You only have the one mala. This will help you choose the best mala for your practice.