Japa mala is a string of prayer beads used for reciting or chanting a
mantra or other forms of spiritual exercise or sadhana, generally known
as "japa/jaap". The mala beads are in sets of 27, 56 or 108
repetitions. A jaap/japa mala is very popular among Indians. A jaap mala
is a very practical tool for meditation. Why do you use the Japa Mala?
Rosary beads is used to keep the mind focussed on the meditation. It is a known fact that the mind tends to wander off all time, especially during the meditation practice. If your energy is low at the time of meditation, you can fall asleep. If the energy is too high, you can be distracted in other ways. During such times, the japa mala provides the much needed anchor. The prayer beads are moved in rhythm with the breath and the mantra, and hence both-sleep as well as excessive mental distraction are prevented by this action upon the beads.
For Wearing
A Rosary Beads when around the neck is also a wonderful accessory to meditation. This personal mala which when used regularly with a personal mantra, absorbs the vibrations of the practice and the mala becomes like a close friend or a comfortable piece of clothing. The japa mala, when worn also acts as a talisman and maintains a positive flow of energy throughout the body.
How to Use a Japa Mala/Rosary Beads?
- Hold your japa mala in your right hand.
- The index finger is extended and should not touch the japa mala.
- Use your thumb to touch the bead for counting each mantra during the recitation. Then lightly push the bead away on completion and move on to the next bead.
- The large meru (mountain) bead is the starting and ending point on the mala for counting the repetitions but should not be counted or touched by the thumb.
- Continue counting by pulling the beads and going backwards until you again end at the meru. Continue till you have done 108 repetitions or multiples of 108.
- If you have a wrist mala of 27 beads you will need to repeat this 3 more times.