Warm, light tulsi wood alternates with matte black lava stone across 108 beads: this mala is an earthy, understated piece. Strung from roughly 6 mm beads, it has a fine, light look, measures about 34 cm, and arrives in a colourful pouch. It can be used as a meditation tool or worn as a necklace.
What is a mala?
A mala is the prayer string of Hindu and Buddhist tradition, used to count mantras during meditation. A mantra is a sequence of words — often in Sanskrit — traditionally repeated 108 times. The repetition focuses attention, settles the thoughts and helps the body relax.
Why 108 beads?
108 is a sacred number in Hindu and Buddhist tradition with many meanings — tradition holds, for example, that this many subtle energy channels (nadis) run through the body. That is why malas are traditionally made with 108 beads.
The materials
Tulsi (holy basil) wood is especially honoured in Hindu tradition; its light, warm beads feel pleasant in the hand. Lava stone is solidified, porous volcanic rock (basalt); its small open pores mean many also use it to hold a drop of essential oil. Tradition regards lava stone as grounding and steadying, which suits meditative practice well.
Good to know
The finer 6 mm beads give this version a light, graceful look. The same pairing is also available in larger 8 mm beads.