One hundred and eight light tulsi beads, accented near the tassel with warm pink thulite and soft rose quartz: this mala brings the gentle palette of heart stones into meditation and everyday wear. It measures roughly 35 cm, can be worn as a necklace, and 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 tunes you to the meaning and vibration of the words, 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 associated meanings — tradition holds, for instance, that this many subtle energy channels (nadis) run through the body, and many sacred texts carry the number. That is why malas are traditionally made with 108 beads.
The stones
Tulsi (holy basil) wood is especially honoured in Hindu tradition; its light, warm beads slide easily between the fingers. Near the tassel sit thulite, the vivid pink variety of zoisite and a stone of joy, and rose quartz, the pale pink stone of love and tenderness. Together the two shades give a warm, heart-centred feel.
Good to know
The stones are AA quality; as natural minerals, the shades vary slightly from piece to piece.