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Running the crystals over the meridian of my finger while repeating a mantra. 108 beads for 108 blessings = a few minutes to change my brain waves and the rest of my day!
About Malas:
A mala is a simple, effective meditative tool, which can help reduce stress and enhance wisdom, patience, and health. A mala consists of 108, 54, or 27 beads, traditionally strung on silk thread with one larger bead, called the Guru bead, from which a tassel hangs. The tassel symbolizes a thousand lotus petals.
How to use a mala:
A mala can be used in either hand. Always start with the bead next to the Guru bead. As you repeat the mantra, move each bead with the thumb, towards the body over the meridian point. Thus, the Guru bead descends and eventually ascends to be the last bead of your meditation. As you hold the Guru bead, repeat your mantra and make a prayer. To begin again turn the mala around without the help of the other hand. Move the beads towards you and continue your mantra.
Using your mala with mantra:
When reciting the mantra SAT NAAM move only one bead for both words. With the mantra WHAA-HAY GUROO, move only one bead for the two words. You may also use the mantra SAT NAAM WHAA-HAY GUROO, saying them both with the movement of one bead. You may use any affirmation or mantra of your choice. The recitation of your mantra may be done silently, in a whisper, or out loud.
- Mala Meditation from KRI International Teacher Training Manual Lvl. 1
108:
1 is the symbol for the finite, the singular. 8 is the symbol for infinity. 0 is the circuit, the portal, the connection. 108 depicts the singular connecting to the infinite. The infinite connecting to the singular. 1 0 8. The Guru bead is not included in this count and represents the whole embodiment of the finite and the infinite and everything in between.