Malas are a type of meditation or prayer beads and are ancient tools that were developed to keep the mind focused and clear from thoughts. How many beads are in a mala? A full mala contains 108 counting beads plus one guru or meru bead. Usually, a 108 bead mala is long enough to wear as a necklace.
Mala beads aren’t worn for show. They’re worn to the center. They don’t decorate the body — they anchor the spirit. Each bead represents a breath, a mantra, a step closer to stillness. For centuries, malas have been used to calm the mind, align energy, and deepen meditation. Where Do Mala Beads Come From?
From the Sanskrit "heavenly garland," malas are used in Buddhism to count repetitions of mantras—short sacred phrases—or prostrations. Traditional malas have beads crafted from seeds, gemstones, or wood, and are often finished with an additional "guru" bead and a special knot and/or tassel.
Originating in India 3000 years ago, malas have roots in Hinduism and Buddhism and have been used by yogis and other seekers to help focus the mind during meditation by moving their fingers over the beads to recite affirmations.
Malas, or prayer beads, are deeply rooted in spiritual traditions across the world. While they share a common purpose as tools for meditation, prayer, and mindfulness, each type of mala—Japa, Zen, Tibetan, and Mantra—carries its unique history, patterns, and meanings.
Malas — also known as yoga beads or japamalas — are necklaces that usually have 108 beads. Mala, Sanskrit for “garland,” is often used to enhance spiritual practice.
Our malas are made to move with you, from moments of stillness to the rhythm of your daily life. Discover a collection of authentic wrist malas and 108-bead Buddhist mala necklaces, each one ethically sourced and handmade in the shadow of the sacred Boudhanath Stupa in Nepal since 1999.