Malas have been used for centuries traditionally to repeat mantras 108 times (prayers) during meditation practices. Mala is a Sanskrit term meaning "garland" or "necklace" that is full of symbolism similar in many ways to a rosary.
Worn by The Buddha, Ghandi, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, saints and sadhus throughout the ages as an aide to self empowerment and self enlightenment. Today, malas are being used more and more as a personal accessory by non-meditators and meditators alike who are seeking transformation of a calmer mind, body and soul. When one reaches to the neck during the day and feels a mala, it is a reminder to come back to the breath, to be aware. When leaning over, the mala dangles into eyesight, another awakening, another gentle nudge.
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