While there are many types of malas, each one is similar in its intent.

While there are many types of malas, each one is similar in its intent. While a mala can be used for counting mantras and prayers, most often it’s used to help focus the mind during meditation. This is done by holding the beads between the fingers and feeling how they slide between your fingers as you count.

The standard mala has 108 beads on it for Hindu meditation purposes; however, malas with fewer or more beads exist depending on what kind of practice you’re doing (and we’ll get into that below). In general, most malas are made from sandalwood or jade because these materials lend themselves well to being worn close to the skin without irritation—but there are also plastic versions available if those don’t suit your needs!

Mala beads are used for meditation.

Mala beads are used as a tool in meditation and prayer. When you’re meditating, it’s helpful to have some sort of physical object that can help keep your mind focused on the present moment. Mala beads can do just that by keeping track of how many times you’ve repeated a mantra or thought.

For example, when meditating on positivity, each bead represents a positive thought or word. So if there are ten beads on your mala, then each time you complete one full rotation around the string with your thumb and pointer finger (or index finger), it means that ten positive thoughts have been said aloud in your mind during meditation practice!

Another purpose for malas is to recite mantras.

The other purpose for malas is to recite mantras. Mantras are sacred words passed down through the ages which hold powerful energy and help you connect with a higher power, your own inner power or even the universe itself. Mala beads are used to keep count of how many times you’ve repeated a mantra during meditation.

The most common type of mala is one made from 108 beads (the number of names in Hinduism). After all your mantras have been said and/or counted, it’s time to move onto your next step—cleaning up after yourself!

Mala beads come in various types and materials.

Mala beads come in various types and materials. Malas can be made from different materials, each of which carries different properties and benefits. For example, wood malas are usually made from sandalwood or teak wood. Bone is another popular material for making mala beads; it’s considered to have protective qualities that help ward off negative energy. Seeds are another commonly used material; they’re said to represent the infinite potential of the universe. Crystals, such as quartz or amethyst, are often incorporated into a mala since they too hold healing properties that can help bring balance to your mind and body when worn on your wrist or neckline throughout the day (or night!).

Malas also come in different shapes—round or oval-shaped beads are common but you’ll also find triangular-shaped ones too! As far as colors go: many people choose to wear black because they believe this color symbolizes spirituality while other folks prefer more colorful options like blues or pinks because these hues represent happiness + peace within oneself.”

Malas not only look pretty but can also be used as a tool in meditation and mantras.

Malas, or rosaries, are used to keep track of the number of times a mantra is recited. Malas come in many different materials and styles—the most common being made from beads of jade and crystal. The most common mala is made up of 108 beads (representing the universe) with a guru bead at one end and an auspicious bead at the other. This type of mala is commonly worn by Hindus who are practicing meditation or chanting mantras. There are several other types of malas as well:

• A traditional Hindu mala has 108 beads plus one guru bead and an auspicious bead on each end
• Chakra malas usually have 144 beads divided into groups according to chakra colors (red, orange, yellow…etc.)