A mala that guides
This mala follows the traditional 108-bead arrangement, with 8 mm beads made of kadam wood (neolamarckia cadamba). Among the wooden beads sit seven different chakra gemstones: amethyst, lapis lazuli, iolite, peridot, citrine, carnelian, and garnet. A simple yet thoughtful piece that can also be worn as a necklace, with a length of about 44 centimetres.
The kadam wood
Kadam is a light, warm-toned wood often used in Nepalese handcraft. Its natural tone brings out the colours of the chakra gemstones nicely and feels pleasant in the hand during meditation. Because it is handmade, small differences between the beads may appear — these are not flaws but the character of handwork.
A short look at the seven chakras
Chakra is a Sanskrit word, often translated as an energy wheel. It refers to nodes of a subtle energy system that runs along the body. The seven main chakras follow the spine, and tradition assigns each one a colour, a gemstone, and an area of life. These links have no scientific proof; wearing the mala is simply a kind reminder of inner attention.
How to use it
The mala is used to count mantras during meditation. A mantra is a short word or phrase, often of Sanskrit origin, quietly repeated to oneself. Traditionally, 108 repetitions make one round, and the beads are moved one by one between the thumb and the middle finger. There is no need to say them aloud; silent repetition also helps with stillness.
Wear and storage
When not meditating, many people wear it around the neck or wrapped on the wrist. The 44-centimetre length allows both. When taken off, it is worth keeping it in the textile pouch so the wood beads do not dry out and the gemstones do not scratch. An occasional wipe with a soft cotton cloth keeps the warm glow of the mala.