Mala Beads: A Powerful Tool for Meditation & Setting Intentions

Blog #003

The Meaning & Use of Mala Beads

Mala beads are sacred tools for mindfulness, meditation, and spiritual connection. Rooted in ancient Hindu and Buddhist traditions, malas have been used for centuries to aid in mantra repetition, focus the mind, and deepen meditative practices. Now people from all spiritual backgrounds use mala beads to expand their presence, set intentions, and reset their energy. These beads are an amazing tool if you are looking for an entry into meditation or spiritual practice, as they offer a tangible and accessible exercise.

I discovered mala meditation during my yoga teacher training and found the practice to be extremely beneficial. At this point I had been meditating regularly for over a year but didn’t feel like my thoughts had calmed down much in that time. The focused attention and continual opportunity to return to your intention during the mala meditation was a breath of fresh air. I have found this to be an amazing ritual and it has inspired me to share this information with you and hopefully support you on your own journey of personal and spiritual exploration.

The Symbolism & Significance of 108 Beads

These strands traditionally contain 108 beads plus one guru bead. It is also common to find smaller malas made with a lower multiple of nine beads, and sometimes with the inclusion of spacer beads, malas can have 111 beads or more but still maintain 108 primary beads in this case. Despite these diverse offerings, 108 is the base number on which malas are structured and the significance of this number is found in multiple spiritual traditions.

In Hinduism, 108 is considered sacred, appearing in ancient texts like the Upanishads, which contain 108 philosophical teachings. The Hindus also consider there to be 108 sacred sites in India, the ‘Divya Desham’ temples, or ‘divine abodes’ of Lord Vishnu.

In Buddhism, many prayer wheels and mantras are designed around 108 repetitions, symbolizing the journey toward enlightenment. In Buddhist lore there are also 108 mental impurities to be cleansed and temptations to overcome on the path to nirvana.

Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, identifies 108 energy lines (nadis) in the body, all converging at the heart chakra. This number is also sacred in the teachings of yoga, used in certain asana, pranayama, and meditation practices.

The number 108 carries powerful numerological symbolism as well, representing the wholeness of existence. With, 1 (the individual), 0 (emptiness or the universe), and 8 (infinity and eternity). Together, they embody the journey of spiritual awakening—moving from self-awareness (1), through infinite potential (0), into an eternal, flowing connection with the universe (8).

108 can even be found in sacred geometry, in the angles of yantras (mystical diagrams) and mandalas, which are used for meditation and spiritual focus. Whether you're reciting a mantra, moving through yoga poses, or simply contemplating the meaning of this number, the presence of 108 is a reminder of connection—to the self, the divine, and the greater cosmos.

How to Use Mala Beads in Meditation & Daily Practice

Mala beads can be used in many ways, from formal meditation to carrying a reminder of your intentions throughout the day. Here are some simple ways to incorporate them into your spiritual practice:

1. Japa Meditation (Mantra Repetition) - Japa meditation involves repeating a mantra or affirmation 108 times, moving your fingers along each bead as you go. You can use Sanskrit mantras like “Om Mani Padme Hum” or personal affirmations such as “I am at peace.”

2. Breathwork Meditation - Hold your mala and inhale deeply as you touch one bead, then exhale and move to the next. This helps you slow down and anchor yourself in the present moment.

3. Counting Gratitude or Prayers - Mala beads can also be used to cultivate gratitude—go through each bead and name something you’re grateful for. This shifts your mindset and raises your vibration.

Choosing the Right Mala for You

Choosing a mala is an intuitive process, that goes beyond selecting a gemstone or a color you like. A mala is a personal tool that should feel aligned with your energy and intentions. Some people are drawn to a mala instantly, feeling an unexplainable connection to its presence. Others may take more time, exploring different stones, textures, and energies before finding the right one. Rather than overthinking, allow yourself to be guided by what speaks to you. Don’t think you have strong intuition? Intuition is a muscle and needs to used regularly to strengthen, so take this opportunity to practice! Close your eyes, and see if you feel warmth, a sense of peace, or an inner knowing that this is the one meant for you. And don’t second-guess it, trust in your internal wisdom and the message you are receiving.

The materials used in a mala carry their own energetic properties, making each one unique. For example, Sandalwood is known for its calming and grounding properties, perfect for those seeking inner peace. Rose Quartz, the stone of unconditional love, is ideal for heart-opening and self-compassion practices.

Colors also carry vibrational energy, and choosing a mala based on color can be a powerful way to align with your current needs.

• Blue tones, such as lapis lazuli or aquamarine, bring a sense of calm and clarity, ideal if you’re seeking peace or enhanced communication.
• Reds, like garnet or red jasper, are energizing and grounding, supporting strength and vitality.
• Green stones, such as aventurine or jade, are linked to the heart chakra and emotional healing.
• White or clear stones, like quartz or moonstone, carry a high spiritual frequency and can support clarity and connection with the divine.

If you're unsure which mala to choose, consider the energy you want to invite into your life, and let the colors guide you.

Once you've chosen a mala, creating a personal bond with it will deepen its significance in your practice. Before using it, take a moment to set an intention, holding the mala in your hands and infusing it with your energy. Some people sleep with their mala under their pillow for the first few nights to create a subtle energetic connection. Others meditate with it by simply holding it and allowing it to become familiar. The more you integrate your mala into your spiritual rituals, the more it becomes a sacred companion—one that holds your prayers, your growth, and your journey in its beads.

Caring for & Cleansing Your Mala Beads

Because malas absorb energy, it’s important to cleanse them regularly to maintain their vibrational integrity. Likewise, if you are working with a new intention or mantra, it might be useful to clear your previous intentions, so that your beads can fully integrate your new desired energy. Here are a few ways to cleanse your mala:

• Moonlight – Leave your mala under the full moon overnight to recharge its energy.
• Incense or Sage – Pass your mala through sacred smoke to clear any accumulated energy.
• Sound Cleansing – Use a singing bowl or chime to reset the frequency of your beads.
• Intention & Visualization – Hold your mala and visualize white light purifying it.

Store your mala with care, preferably in a pouch or on an altar, to honor its sacred purpose.

Some Final Encouragement

Mala beads are more than just accessories—they are spiritual companions on your journey. Whether you use them for meditation, intention-setting, or as a gentle reminder of your path, they offer a beautiful way to deepen your connection with yourself and the universe.

If you’re looking for a handcrafted mala infused with love and intention, explore our collection and find one that speaks to your soul. Let it be a guide, a comfort, and a reflection of your light growing each day.