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Prayer Bead-Mala Supplies and Inspiration

Prayer Bead-Mala Supplies and Inspiration

Prayer Bead-Mala Supplies and Inspiration

For thousands of years, beads and jewelry have been used to aid in prayer, meditation, and religious recitations. Many religions have their own style and traditions associated with prayer jewelry. Mala necklaces typically have 108 beads and are used when reciting mantras. Rosaries have 59 beads and help practitioners keep track of their prayers.

Check out this Mala tutorial on YouTube!

For thousands of years, beads and jewelry have been used to aid in prayer, meditation, and religious recitations. Many religions have their own style and traditions associated with prayer jewelry. Mala necklaces typically have 108 beads and are used when reciting mantras. Rosaries have 59 beads and help practitioners keep track of their prayers. Read more about prayer beads on our blog. Click here to watch a video tutorial and learn how to make your own knotted Mala! Mala Beads for Prayer & Meditation
At Cherry Tree Beads, our mala beads collection brings you classic 108 bead necklaces crafted for mantra recitation, mindfulness, and spiritual focus. Whether you’re new to meditation or a seasoned yogi, these mala prayer beads help you keep count and stay centered. Each strand is hand selected for quality and comfort, making your practice feel smooth and peaceful.
Discover features designed with care:
• Gemstone Options: Amethyst, rose quartz, jasper, and more for natural energy support
• Strong Stringing: Durable silk or cotton cord that holds knots firmly
• Signature Guru Bead & Tassel: Marks your starting point and adds a touch of style
Our friendly team loves helping you find the perfect color and stone for your journey. Use your mala beads for daily meditation, mantra chanting, or simply as a mindful accessory. Browse our mala beads today and bring calm, balance, and inspiration into every moment!
What Are Mala Beads?
Mala beads are special strings used for counting mantras and staying focused during meditation. A traditional mala prayer beads set includes:
• 108 beads plus a guru bead: The guru bead marks your starting point and helps you keep track as you move through each bead.
• Differences from rosaries: While rosaries often have 59 beads for prayer cycles, malas use 108 beads to support longer recitations and deeper mindfulness.
• Mindful counting and calm: Sliding your fingers over each bead keeps your mind on the mantra and off distractions, helping you feel peaceful and centered.
Using mala beads in your practice brings structure to each session. The soft feel of the beads and the gentle rhythm of your fingers guide you into a calm state.
History & Spiritual Use of Mala Beads
Mala beads have been guiding prayer and meditation for thousands of years. They first appeared in ancient Hindu traditions, where practitioners counted recitations of mantras to deepen their focus. Buddhist monks adopted malas too, using them during long meditation sessions to help settle the mind and honor sacred teachings.
In yoga and modern mindfulness, mala prayer beads support concentrated breathing and chant work. Sliding each bead between your fingers creates a calming rhythm, whether you’re repeating “om” or another mantra. Over time, this simple practice helps you stay present and reduces stress.
Prayer beads show up in many faiths around the world. Catholic rosaries, Islamic misbaha, and Buddhist malas all serve the same purpose: to keep count and center the spirit. While shapes, bead counts, and materials vary, the heart of the practice remains the same—using tactile tools like mala beads to bring peace, intention, and devotion into every moment.
How to Make & Use Mala Prayer Beads
Creating your own mala prayer beads is a peaceful, hands on way to connect with your practice. Follow these simple steps to string and knot your mala beads:
• Gather supplies: 108 beads of your choice, strong cord or silk thread, a guru bead, and a tassel.
• Cut your cord: Measure about 45–48 inches to leave extra for tying knots.
• String and knot: Slide on each bead, tying a small knot after every 27 beads (or after each bead for added flair). This keeps your mala sturdy and spaced.
• Add the guru bead and tassel: Thread the guru bead last, then secure your tassel below it with a tight knot.
• Finish securely: Double check all knots, trim any excess cord, and use a drop of glue if you like extra hold.
When you’re ready to meditate, hold your guru bead between thumb and middle finger. Slide each bead as you recite your mantra to keep count and calm your mind.
Video tutorial: Watch here
Frequently Asked Questions about Mala Beads
Got questions about mala beads? Our friendly guide will help you craft and meditate with confidence.
• How many beads should a mala have?
A traditional mala features 108 beads plus one guru bead to mark your starting point. Some modern malas use 54 or 27 beads for shorter practice sessions.
• Can I use any cord for mala beads?
You can choose silk, cotton, nylon, or elastic cord. For durability, silk or waxed cotton is best. Match cord thickness to your bead holes for a secure fit.
• What’s the best way to count mantras?
Begin at the guru bead, then slide each bead between thumb and middle finger as you recite your mantra. This keeps your focus steady and your count accurate.
• Can I wear mala beads every day?
Yes! Daily wear reminds you to stay mindful. Just keep beads away from water and rough surfaces to keep them looking beautiful.
Shop Mala Beads Collection Today
Ready to find the perfect mala beads for your practice? At Cherry Tree Beads, our friendly team has hand picked a wide variety of strands to help you meditate, chant, and create with joy.
We offer fast shipping, easy returns, and no minimum wholesale jewelry supplies for teachers and studios. Plus, our how to guides and video tutorials make every step simple and fun.
Browse our full mala beads selection now—find your favorite colors and stones, add your beads to the cart, and start crafting mindful tools that inspire calm and focus every day!

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