The same warm tulsi and matte lava pairing, but on larger, fuller beads of roughly 8 mm and a longer string of about 43.5 cm: this mala is a bolder, more visible piece. The bigger beads slide comfortably between the fingers while counting, and the longer string drapes easily around the neck. It arrives in a colourful pouch.
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 the mind, settles the thoughts and helps you relax. Today a mala is also worn simply as an accessory.
Why 108 beads?
108 is a sacred number in Hindu and Buddhist tradition with many meanings; tradition holds, among other things, that this many subtle energy channels 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 beads feel warm in the hand. Lava stone is porous volcanic rock (basalt) whose small pores can hold a drop of essential oil; tradition regards it as grounding and steadying. On the larger 8 mm beads, the grain of the wood and the matte surface of the stone show more clearly.
Good to know
Its longer length makes this version look good draped loosely around the neck. The same pairing is also available in finer 6 mm beads.