Buddhist monks have been using them for centuries, but everyday people can incorporate this ancient technique into their lives to relieve stress.

The word mala is Sanskrit for “prayer beads.” The tradition of using malas dates back centuries, when Buddhist monks would use them as tools during meditation. Today, the practice of meditating with a mala has become more mainstream, and it’s even possible to create your own set of beads. If you’re interested in learning more about this ancient technique, read on!

The word mala is a Sanskrit word that means prayer or meditation beads.

The word mala is a Sanskrit word meaning “prayer or meditation beads.” The beads are used to count mantras, or sacred words and phrases repeated during the practice of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism. The mala has been used for thousands of years in different cultures throughout history.

Malas are meant to be made of 108 beads, representing the number of worldly desires humans have.

A mala is a string of beads used for meditation and prayer. The word mala comes from the Sanskrit word for “garland,” which was worn around the neck during religious rituals in ancient India. Malas are traditionally made of 108 beads, representing the number of worldly desires humans have.

The symbol can be found on Hindu temples as well as at Buddhist shrines, where it represents spiritual connectivity among people and their connection to God. In Buddhism, 108 represents other important numbers such as 12 (which represents the 12 links in the chain of dependent origination) and 27 (which represents 27 planes or levels).

But a half mala, or 54-bead count, symbolizes the energy pathways in the body.

But a half mala, or 54-bead count, symbolizes the energy pathways in the body. These pathways are called nadis and are believed to transport energy throughout the body.

To wear a mala necklace with 108 beads is to live an abundant, joyful life. The number 108 has great significance in Hinduism and Buddhism: 1008 represents both 1% (the spiritual realm) and 100% (the physical realm). The number 108 also corresponds to various aspects of human experience:

• 1/2 = duality
• 2/3 = mind + heart
• 2 x 3 = 6 elements (space + air + fire + water + earth + consciousness)

When worn as a necklace or bracelet, malas can be a reminder to practice mindfulness throughout the day.

When worn as a necklace or bracelet, malas can be a reminder to practice mindfulness throughout the day. As you move throughout your day, you can use your mala as inspiration to take pause and focus on the present moment—an essential component of mindfulness.

Practicing mindfulness throughout the day can help you deal with stress in a healthier way than many other techniques out there. It also gives your mind an opportunity to rest from negative thoughts and feelings associated with stressors like work or family responsibilities, which may help improve overall mental health. You might want to wear your mala as a necklace or bracelet if you’re interested in keeping it close by all day long. Alternatively, you could place it on an altar or shelf in your home so that it’s always available whenever needed; this makes it easy for people who are new at using malas (or don’t have one yet) because they aren’t required all time long!

Using a mala gives you something else to focus on besides whatever situation is stressing you out.

While using a mala may be relaxing and soothing for many people, for me it’s been an invaluable tool for dealing with anxiety. As someone who rarely has the chance to live in the present moment (and when I do, it’s often because I’m doing something like running or meditating), my mind tends to wander when I’m not actively engaged in something. A mala bead necklace helps me keep my thoughts on track by giving me something else to focus on besides whatever situation is stressing me out. Whether you’re repeating a mantra or affirmation with each bead (I personally prefer affirmations), or simply focusing on your breath as you pass through each bead, using a mala gives you something else to focus on besides whatever situation is stressing you out right now—and that can be extremely helpful if said situation involves other people!

Use your mala as a way to stay grounded and engage in calming self-talk.

• Use calming self-talk to ease anxiety.
• The words you choose to describe yourself, how you are feeling and what is happening in your life influence how you feel. Your inner monologue is powerful.
• Try using positive words for yourself like “calm,” “peaceful,” or “relaxed.” These words can help bring about a sense of calm that can help when you’re feeling anxious or stressed out.
• Avoid using negative words such as “tense” or “terrible” which may actually increase anxiety or make it worse.

Learn how this ancient practice can help you handle everyday stressors.

Mala beads are a practical way to meditate, but they’re also relaxing. You can use them anywhere, anytime: while you’re waiting in line at the grocery store or sitting on your couch watching TV.

You can carry them with you wherever you go and they will fit right into your lifestyle. They’re small enough that you don’t have to worry about carrying a bulky or heavy item around with you every day. But if people do ask what they are, it’s an opportunity for problem solving and creativity!

Mala beads aren’t just good for bringing peace into your life; they can also be fashion accessories! There are many different styles and colors available so there is sure to be something for everyone—whether it’s casual or formal wear that catches their fancy!