Choosing A Mala... A not really "How-To"

I feel honored that so many have asked me to create malas tailored to their practice. Some have a clear vision of what they would like in a mala, and just as many ask me for suggestions on exactly how to choose or how to use their mala properly. With so many traditions, materials and styles, it is easy to see why.

So how do you choose?

Questions I like to begin with are: What is calling to you? Do you study and work with chakras or energy points? Are you inspired by a particular color? Have you always been drawn to a specific gemstone? This is the perfect place to begin....within in your heart. 

This post may initially sound like a "how to" but it is mostly a reminder that your decision on how your mala is created will be your choice, from your unique practice and your beautiful spirit! There are those who enjoy the guidelines of traditions and books, which is wonderful too! However, I am of the belief that if you work from a sincere and deep place within, your meditation will be just as sweet and just as fruitful.

Questions I get asked often:

What gemstones should I use? Which will bring me peace, ground me, open the heart chakra....etc.?

I have learned a great deal about gemstones since I began creating malas and many have asked me for information on the very specific qualities of stones. I love to research and look into this, but again, I actually don't believe you need to take some one's word for it! If you find that a certain gemstone feels good for you, or grounds you, or brings you peace even by its very color, then that is what the stone will manifest for you.  

Can I wear my mala? Some say to keep it hidden and use only for japa and leave on an altar or in a pouch?

Yes to all of the above! No one can tell you how to keep your mala. I always like to look at it as an old friend that you treat with kindness, love and respect. If you enjoy wearing your mala and it reminds you to do good, then wonderful! If you like to keep it hidden and quietly kept just for your practice, then you should also feel great about doing so. Treating and using it well is all that matters. 

Should it be strung on wire or hand-knotted?

Malas can be any size, of any material and strung on anything you like. If you can get your hands on both types of malas to feel them, that is optimal. If you like the feel of the knots between the beads rather than moving the beads along wire, then that is for you. 

Can I have a mala of different gemstones?

I love to keep malas generally of one or two gemstones, but in this case, it is also up to you. Sometimes a combination of gemstones feels right. Then go with it! Even if it feels like it is coming from an aesthetic place. I think what you need finds you and admiring something for its beauty can be beneficial and inspiring to your practice too!

So a summary of this post would be- go with what resonates with you! Use your mala in a way that feels organic and beautiful. Don't take anyone's word for it or feel you need to follow any rules unless you wish to. 

As Swami Satchidananda said: "Truth is one, paths are many."

Peace and Light,
Saraswati