A little info on Mālā
With a profound love for both gemstones and the natural world, my life's journey led me to follow my passion. Over the course of more than 25 years, my travels across the globe have brought me to the enchanting city of Kathmandu, Nepal – a place close to my heart, where I am surrounded by exquisite gemstones and the alluring essence of sandalwood. This experience inspired me to embark on the art of crafting Mālās.
For over a decade now, I have taken immense pleasure in designing necklaces and other jewelry pieces. I offer a range of creations, including full Mālās with 108 beads, Half Mālās with 54 beads, and pocket-sized Mālās. Furthermore, I am honored to bring to life custom pieces upon request.
Each Mālā I create is a unique expression of my craft. While some might bear a resemblance, the inherent nature of natural stones and wood ensures that every bead is distinctive, rendering your special creation truly one-of-a-kind. Selecting your Mālā and its beads is best guided by your intuition and the pull of your heart.
A Mālā serves myriad purposes – it can be a tool for meditation, a conduit for reflection, a connection to the chosen stones, or simply an exquisite adornment. Traditionally, a Mālā comprises 108 beads and a guru bead, serving to enhance japa meditation, where the count of repeated mantras is kept. However, Mālās can also feature fewer beads, such as 18, 27, or 54. The number of beads corresponds to the intention of the meditation. For instance, a 27-bead Mālā aids in spiritual progress, while a 108-bead Mālā fosters a sense of fulfillment. The number 108 holds spiritual significance, as it is believed that 108 energy lines converge to form the heart chakra, anahata.
To engage in Mālā meditation, sit in an upright posture with a straight spine. Close your eyes gently. Cradle the Mālā in your right hand, allowing it to rest on your second and third fingers. Begin with the Guru bead, using your thumb to move along each bead as you chant your chosen mantra.
Ultimately, a Mālā becomes whatever the wearer desires it to be. Infused with your thoughts, hopes, and dreams, these beads and gemstones absorb your energy and the energy of your surroundings. To maintain their vibrancy, it is recommended to periodically cleanse and recharge your Mālā. This can be achieved through methods like smudging with sage or Palo Santo, or by basking it in the glow of a full moon.
My Mālās are meticulously crafted, with each bead securely knotted using resilient Linhasita Waxed Polyester Cord and C-Lon bead cord. While they are known for their durability, it's important to note that they can be sensitive to certain elements. Exposure to water, direct sunlight, and excessive forces like tugging or pulling may cause them to break or tarnish. The beading cord does offer some flexibility, but it won't spring back when stretched forcefully. If by chance you do have a breakage, please contact me and I will see what can be done.
May you find as much joy in wearing my creations as I find in crafting them.
Big Smiles,
Shenoa