The Meaning of Malas
So much more than jewelry, malas are a physical representation of our practice that also serve as a reminder of our intentions and a deeper connection to the spiritual side of yoga. Traditionally malas are made with 108 beads, one guru bead, optional spacers and a tassel, with each aspect having its own specific meaning and intention. For example, the large “guru” bead above the tassel represents a great teacher, or light that guides one towards the path of enlightenment. Although these beautiful adornments can be worn as jewelry, they are originally intended to be used for meditation.
If you find yourself trying to meditate but get distracted by everything-the clicking of the clock, the itch on your nose, the checklist of the things you have to do-then you might benefit from using a mala to meditate. If you start at the guru bead, count or breathe through the 108 beads and go back again in the opposite direction, your brain will be forced into the present moment by focusing on the counting and your breath, clearing your mind of clutter.
Brain scientist, Jill Bolte Taylor, describes our ability to regulate neurological processes related to stress as the “90 second rule”: “when a person has a reaction to something in their environment, there’s a 90 -second chemical process that happens; any remaining emotional response is just that person choosing to stay in that emotional loop. Taylor suggests that when you notice yourself feeling triggered (remember: it’s a practice), to “look at the second hand on a watch. As soon as you look at it, you are now observing yourself having this physiological reaction instead of engaging with it. It will take less than 90 seconds, and you will feel better” instead of going right back to those thoughts and restimulating the loop again and again. A mala can always be a great tactile/distractionary tool in moments of stress, anger or great disappointment as it takes about 3 minutes to complete a full round of meditation with a mala. (1) To learn more about the brain science behind the 90-Second Rule click here.
Using mala beads for meditation is such an ancient and widespread spiritual practice that the beads of a mala were originally made of dried seeds, wood and other inexpensive, easily accessible materials. As the popularity of yoga spread and more affluent students found the practice there was an increase in the use of more costly accents such as precious and semi-precious stones, metals and ornate pendants added for increased spiritual connection and deeper personal meaning. Each gemstone carries a different meaning and can be chosen to increase resiliency, decrease stress or reduce emotional tensions, absorb negative energy, invite self love and so much more. If you choose to customize your mala, you can choose gemstones that align with your spirit and intentions.
Malas are such a stunning, personal, and unique way to meditate, and they add beauty and calmness to your everyday life as objects that represent that quiet, peaceful and unchanging Divine place within you. If you’re looking for a beautiful mala that calls to you, click here. Also, another of my favorite local San Antonio small business for custom malas and jewelry is owned by yoga teacher Brandie Regalado! You can see her magical creations on her website sayomsa.com or by visiting her business instagram @sayomsa.
Written by: Brandie Regalado & Lana Reed
Offerings: Pre-made and Customized Malas, specialized yoga and small business photography, Accredited Yoga Teacher Trainings & more
Explore: Wild Thing Malas / SayOmSA / Wild Thing Photography / Wild Thing School of Yoga / Instagram
Reference: www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-right-mindset/202004/the-90-second-rule-builds-self-control
Photography Credit: Wild Thing Photography
Model: Katie Goodman @imkatiegoodman