How to Use a Mala in Your Meditation Practice

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One of my favorite meditation tools that you’ll find me using daily- a mala! Focusing on the repetition of a mantra or word, the mala usually has 108 beads that are made from a variety of woods or stones and have meanings and intentions associated with them. For those days where you feel overwhelmed or could just use a little extra energy, pull out your mala and get meditating. :)

Image of mala and crystals

I like to choose a mala that matches the intention I’m seeking in my meditation!

Some examples:

  • Howlite- my choice for releasing attachments from memories, past life lessons, or processing current emotions of deep sorrow or traumas
  • Onyx- my go-to for protecting my personal energy
  • Jade- when I need peace and serenity
  • Rhodonite- when I aim to clear away old patterns and uncover the true passions of my heart
  • Amazonite- when I need courage and guidance with seeing a problem from another person’s point of view

Note- you certainly don’t have to be particular with the mala you use. If you feel called to use a certain one just because, that’s okay! It’s all about what feels best for you.

Not sure how to get started? Don’t worry- this process will help you:

  1. Get in your meditation position- it’s all about feeling comfortable!
  2. Pick your mantra- what’s the focus of your meditation? What do you hope to achieve?
  3. Drape the beads over your middle or ring finger.
  4. Repeat your mantra in your mind, drawing the mala toward you. One bead = one repetition!
  5. Rotate the mala once you reach the guru bead, the end of one round of your meditation, to continue your meditation.
  6. Keep repeating your mantra until you’ve reached your repetition goal!

This practice will take some time, but incorporating it into your daily routine will bring feelings of peace, intention, guidance, and more.

If you’re looking for additional tips, check these out:

  • Keep your mala off the ground and be sure to cleanse it if it does touch the ground (see tips below for how to cleanse it!).
  • Avoid letting other people touch your mala so their energy doesn’t transfer into the stones. You want it to be for your use only!
  • Cleanse your mala from time to time, even if it doesn’t touch the ground. You can do so by placing it in the sunlight or moonlight, burning white sage over it, or putting it in a singing bowl and tapping the side to bring sound to it!

I love to rotate through the malas I use and am constantly adding to my collection. If you want to get started on building yours, check out the malas we offer and be sure to share with us on social media how they help you!

PS- We love malas and believe they support spiritual healing. However- I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice. :)