YOGA MEDITATION BEADS
A yoga mala is a string of 108 beads used for meditation and chanting mantras. Almost every spiritual tradition has a type of prayer beads used for focus, concentration and granting wishes. Yoga malas can be made from many different types of beads and usually have knots between each of the beads. The knots create a space between the beads which is helpful for some people when using for chanting a mantra. Yoga meditation beads are also known as mala beads, malas, japa mala, mala bracelet, mala necklace, meditation beads, prayer beads, beaded mala, or rosary mala.
Types of Yoga Mala Beads: Wood, Seed & Stone
Rosewood Malas
With their deep roots and outstretched limbs, trees represent the human longing to reach to the heavens-to connect with the eternal-while remaining grounded, steadfast, and true. The rosewood tree does this with a warm heart-a core that is deep red to rich purplish brown. Use this beautiful wood to cultivate the qualities associated with an ardent heart, compassion, kindness, and love. Rosewood has been used traditionally to fashion xylophone keys, so don't overlook its strong vibrational quality, physical and otherwise.
Rudraksha Mala Beads
Dark red with a grooved, deeply convoluted surface, the small rudraksha nut was first strung into a mala more than 1,000 years ago. It is revered by followers of the Hindu God Shiva, the divine destroyer. This sacred seed is sold for pennies a handful in temple stalls throughout India, allowing even the poorest devotee to afford a rosary. The rough surface of the rudraksha seed represents the ascetic life required for the worship of Shiva.
Gemstone malas
There are a huge number of different gemstones that mala beads are made from. The most common stones used are Turquoise, Jade, Jasper, Agate, Quartz, Onyx, Labradorite, Amethyst, Citrine, and Carnelian.
Tulsi Malas
Followers of Vishnu, the Hindu god revered for his goodness and mercy, use tulsi malas, the beads of which are made from the upper root and stem of the dried plant.