What Is a 108-Bead Mala? Meaning & How to Use It for Meditation
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What Is a 108-Bead Mala? Meaning & How to Use It for Meditation
A 108-bead mala is a string of 108 beads used for meditation and prayer across many Asian traditions. It is also called japa mala, meditation beads, or simply mala beads. Worn as a bracelet or held in the hand, it gives the mind a gentle anchor during practice.
Why 108 beads?
The number 108 appears again and again in Eastern traditions: 108 earthly desires to overcome, 108 breaths in a day, 108 sacred names. Many meditators repeat a mantra 108 times, using each bead as a counter, so the mind can let go of counting and sink into the practice.
How to use a mala for meditation
- Hold the mala in one hand, starting at the bead next to the guru bead (the larger bead, if present).
- Breathe slowly. With each breath, move one bead between your thumb and middle finger.
- Repeat a mantra, an affirmation, or simply follow your breath for all 108 beads.
- Finish and turn the mala around rather than passing over the guru bead.
Incense mala vs. ordinary mala
Most malas are made of stone or wood. An incense mala adds something extra: natural aromatic wood and traditional incense formulas that release a soft, calming scent while you practice. It is aromatherapy and meditation in one.
At CHA SHOW, our 108-bead incense malas are hand-rolled from natural woods like agarwood (oud) and sandalwood, and slow-cured so the fragrance lasts. No synthetic perfume, ever.
Wear it or hold it
A 108-bead mala can be wrapped around the wrist multiple times and worn as a bracelet, carrying a quiet reminder of calm wherever you go.
Explore our 108-bead collection, or read our guide to incense bracelets for beginners.
Keep Reading
- What Are Incense Bracelets? A Beginner's Guide
- How to Care for Your Incense Bracelet So the Scent Lasts for Years
- 7 Incense Bracelet Benefits: Natural Calm for Stress & Anxiety
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