FAQ

A mala necklace is a string of beads used in various spiritual and meditative practices, especially within the Buddhist and Hindu traditions. The term "mala" is derived from the Sanskrit word for "garland." These necklaces are often used as a tool to aid in meditation, concentration, and mindfulness. They can also serve as a way to count prayers or mantras. Here are some key features and aspects of a mala necklace: Bead Count: Traditional mala necklaces consist of 108 beads, although there are variations with different numbers, such as 54 or 27 beads. The number 108 is considered sacred and significant in many Eastern spiritual traditions. It is believed to represent various aspects of the universe, such as the 108 energy lines converging to form the heart chakra or the 108 stages of the journey to enlightenment. Bead Material: Mala beads can be made from a wide range of materials, each with its own symbolic significance. Common materials include gemstones, wood, seeds, bone, rudraksha beads (a type of seed), and crystals. Different materials are thought to carry unique energetic properties that can influence the meditation and spiritual practice. Guru Bead: The mala necklace typically features one larger bead, known as the "guru bead" or "meru bead." This bead marks the starting and ending point of the mala. When using the mala, practitioners begin and end their meditation or mantra repetition at this bead. Tassel: The guru bead is often connected to the rest of the beads by a tassel made of threads or cords. The tassel represents unity, completion, and connection to the divine or the higher self. Intention and Mantras: Mala necklaces are often used in conjunction with meditation and mantra repetition. A mantra is a sacred sound, word, or phrase that is repeated silently or aloud during meditation. As practitioners move through the beads with each repetition of the mantra, it helps them maintain focus and concentration, as well as cultivate a deeper connection to their spiritual practice. Usage: To use a mala necklace, the practitioner holds the necklace in one hand and moves from one bead to the next after each recitation of the mantra. The thumb is used to move the beads, while the index finger is generally avoided, as it symbolizes the ego. The practice helps individuals stay present and centered, allowing for a more profound meditative experience. Personal Meaning: Each practitioner may infuse their mala necklace with personal intention and meaning. They might choose a particular material or gemstone that resonates with their spiritual journey or intentions for meditation. In summary, a mala necklace is a powerful and symbolic tool that plays a significant role in meditation, mindfulness, and spiritual practices within various Eastern traditions. Its beads, count, and structure all contribute to creating a focused and meaningful meditation experience. Love yourself Wild!

A mala necklace is a string of beads traditionally used in meditation practices within various spiritual and mindfulness traditions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism. It's a tool that can help you focus your mind and keep track of your breath or mantra repetitions. Here's how to use a mala necklace effectively: Choose a Quiet and Comfortable Space: Find a peaceful and quiet place where you won't be disturbed. Sit in a comfortable position with your spine straight and your hands resting on your lap or knees. Set an Intention: Before you begin your meditation, set a clear intention for your practice. This could be a specific goal, affirmation, or a quality you wish to cultivate during your meditation. Hold the Mala: Hold the mala in your right hand, with the first bead (the guru bead) resting between your thumb and middle finger. Start with the bead next to the guru bead, not the guru bead itself. Begin Your Meditation: Take a few deep breaths to center yourself. With each breath, relax your body and clear your mind. When you're ready, gently move the beads one by one, using your thumb to count them. Move to the next bead after completing a breath cycle (inhale and exhale) or after reciting a mantra. Mantra or Breath Awareness: As you move each bead, you can either recite a mantra or focus on your breath. A mantra can be a word, phrase, or sound that holds meaning for you. For example, in Buddhism, the mantra "Om Mani Padme Hum" is often used. With each bead, repeat the mantra or take a deep breath. Avoid Crossing the Guru Bead: When you reach the guru bead again, which is the larger bead at the end of the mala, you have a few options. You can choose not to cross it and turn around, or you can turn the mala around and go in the opposite direction. This is a personal choice and depends on your tradition or preference. Stay Present: As you work through the mala beads, make an effort to stay present and focused. If your mind wanders, gently bring your attention back to your mantra or breath. The beads serve as a tactile anchor to help you maintain your focus. Completion and Reflection: After you've completed a full round of the mala, take a moment to reflect on your meditation. Consider how you feel and whether you've achieved your intention for the practice. Maintenance: Keep your mala clean and well-cared for. Avoid letting it touch the ground, and store it in a safe and respectful place. Remember that using a mala necklace is a personal practice, and there's no one "right" way to do it. You can adapt the practice to suit your beliefs and preferences. The key is to approach it with mindfulness, sincerity, and an open heart. Love yourself Wild!

Our malas and Kits are meticulously curated using an array of thoughtfully selected materials. These encompass a diverse range, such as natural gemstone beads, exquisitely carved wooden beads, delicate seed beads, and tassels woven from entirely eco-friendly recycled cotton yarn. Additionally, our malas often incorporate elements with rich histories, such as vintage jewelry and other one-of-a-kind discoveries. It's important to note that each material infused into our malas imparts distinct energies and characteristics, contributing to the overall significance and aura of the piece. Love yourself Wild!

Currently, we do not offer custom orders for malas. However, each one of our unique malas is truly one-of-a-kind, and you won't find two that are exactly alike. We take pride in curating a diverse and distinctive collection to cater to a variety of preferences and styles. Feel free to explore our range of exclusive malas to find the one that resonates with you the most. Love yourself Wild!

Choosing the right mala is a personal and spiritual decision that should resonate with your intentions, energy, and preferences. Here are some steps to guide you in choosing the right mala for yourself: Set Your Intention: Consider your purpose for using the mala. Are you seeking peace, focus, healing, or spiritual growth? Setting a clear intention will help guide your choice. Select a Gemstone: Different gemstones are believed to possess varying energies and properties. Research the meanings and properties of different gemstones to find one that aligns with your intention. For example, amethyst is associated with spiritual growth, rose quartz with love and compassion, and tiger's eye with protection. Trust Your Intuition: Pay attention to your instincts and feelings when looking at different malas. Hold them in your hand and see if you feel a connection or resonance with a particular mala. Trusting your intuition can often lead you to the right choice. Consider Color: Colors can also carry energy and symbolism. Choose a color that resonates with your intention or simply one that you find visually appealing. Mala Material: Malas can be made from various materials, including gemstones, wood, seeds, or crystals. Consider which material feels most aligned with your energy and intention. Numerology: Malas traditionally have 108 beads, which hold a significant spiritual meaning in various traditions. You can also find malas with different bead counts, each with their own symbolic significance. Style and Aesthetics: Choose a mala that you find aesthetically pleasing and comfortable to wear. You'll likely use it more frequently if you enjoy its appearance and feel. Craftsmanship: Pay attention to the craftsmanship of the mala. Well-made malas are more likely to last longer and maintain their energy. Energetic Cleansing: If possible, cleanse the mala's energy before using it. You can do this through smudging, placing it under moonlight, or using sound vibrations like a singing bowl. Personal Connection: If you feel drawn to a specific spiritual tradition, consider choosing a mala that aligns with its practices and symbolism. Affirmations and Mantras: If you have a specific mantra or affirmation, choose a mala that resonates with its energy. Each bead can represent a repetition of your chosen mantra. Try it On: If you have the opportunity, try the mala on and see how it feels around your neck or wrist. Make sure it's a comfortable fit and length. Remember, there's no right or wrong choice—what matters most is the personal connection you feel with the mala you choose. Take your time, explore different options, and select the one that aligns with your spiritual journey and intentions. Love yourself Wild!

To cleanse the energy of your mala before using it, you can follow several methods rooted in spiritual practices and beliefs. Here are a few approaches you might consider: Smudging with Sage or Palo Santo: Burning sage or palo santo is a common method to cleanse the energy of objects. Light the sage or palo santo stick and let it produce smoke. Hold your mala in the smoke and visualize any negative or stagnant energy being released. Sunlight and Moonlight: Place your mala in direct sunlight or moonlight for a few hours. The natural energy from the sun and moon can help cleanse and recharge the energy of the beads. Sound Cleansing: Use sound vibrations to cleanse your mala. You can ring a singing bowl, play a tuning fork, or use a meditation bell near your mala. The vibrations can help clear stagnant energy. Visualization: Hold your mala in your hands and visualize a bright, pure light surrounding it. Imagine this light washing away any negative or heavy energy and filling the mala with positive energy. Reiki or Energy Healing: If you are attuned to Reiki or any other energy healing modality, you can use your healing energy to cleanse your mala. Hold the mala in your hands and channel healing energy into it, intending to cleanse and recharge its energy. Intention Setting: Hold your mala and set a clear intention to release any negative energy it may hold. You can say a simple affirmation like, "I cleanse this mala of any negative energy and fill it with positive intentions." Flower Petals: Place your mala in a bowl of flower petals, such as rose petals. Flowers are associated with positive energy and can help cleanse the mala. Choose the methods that resonate most with you and align with your beliefs. Remember that intention plays a significant role in energy cleansing, so approach the process with mindfulness and a positive mindset. You can also cleanse your mala periodically to maintain its positive energy. Love yourself Wild!

Yes, malas can be worn as jewelry. Malas are strings of beads, usually used in meditation practices in various spiritual and religious traditions, including Buddhism and Hinduism. They typically consist of 108 beads, although there are variations with different numbers of beads. While malas are primarily used for counting breaths, mantras, or prayers during meditation, many people also wear them as necklaces or bracelets for their aesthetic and spiritual significance. Wearing a mala as jewelry can serve as a reminder of one's spiritual practice, intentions, or personal beliefs. Some individuals believe that wearing a mala can help maintain a sense of mindfulness and connection throughout the day. Malas come in various materials, including traditional ones made from gemstones, wood, seeds, or other natural materials. They can be worn as stylish accessories while still carrying the meditative and spiritual symbolism they hold. If you're considering wearing a mala as jewelry, it's important to be respectful of the cultural and spiritual significance it holds in different traditions. It's also a good idea to learn about the meaning of the specific materials and beads used in the mala, as they might have unique spiritual or energetic properties associated with them. Love yourself Wild!

Absolutely! Every Mala Merkaba purchase includes a free meditation download to help you get started on your journey. A mala is a string of beads traditionally used in meditation to count mantras, breaths, or intentions. Along with the meditation download, we provide basic instructions to guide you in using your mala. Be sure to check back on our site, as we’ll be adding more meditations in the future to support your practice! Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started: Preparation: Choose a Comfortable Space: Find a quiet and comfortable place where you won't be disturbed. You can sit on a cushion, chair, or directly on the floor—whichever is most comfortable for you. Select Your Mala: Choose a mala with 108 beads. You can hold the mala in your right hand, draped over your middle and index fingers. Meditation Steps: Set an Intention: Before you begin, set an intention for your meditation. It could be anything from cultivating inner peace to manifesting positive energy. Sit Comfortably: Close your eyes and sit in a comfortable position. Rest your hands on your lap, and take a few deep breaths to relax. Hold the Mala: Hold the mala between your fingers, starting with the bead next to the guru bead (the larger bead at the center of the mala). This bead is not counted in the 108. Chant a Mantra: As you hold the first bead, recite a mantra silently or aloud. A common mantra is "Om" or "Om Mani Padme Hum." Repeat the mantra once for each bead as you move your fingers along the mala. This helps keep your mind focused and centered. Breathing and Counting: If you're not comfortable with mantras, you can also use your breath. Inhale and exhale deeply as you move from one bead to the next, focusing your attention on each breath. Continue Around the Mala: Continue moving through each bead, either repeating your chosen mantra or taking a deep breath with each bead. If you reach the guru bead and wish to continue, simply turn the mala around and start again. Closing the Meditation: Once you've completed the full circuit of the mala, take a few moments to sit quietly and reflect on your meditation. Slowly bring your awareness back to the present moment. Tips: Maintain a gentle, relaxed grip on the beads. Don't squeeze them tightly. If your mind wanders, gently guide your focus back to the mantra or your breath. It's not necessary to finish the entire mala in one session. You can practice with a smaller number of beads if you prefer. Remember, meditation is a personal practice, and the most important thing is to find what works best for you. With practice, you'll find that using a mala can help enhance your meditation experience and bring about a sense of calm and mindfulness. Love yourself Wild!

Caring for your mala necklace involves a few important steps to ensure its longevity and maintain its spiritual significance. Here's a more detailed guide on how to care for your mala necklace: Storage: When you're not wearing your mala, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. You can use a pouch or a jewelry box to keep it protected from dust and potential damage. Jewelry Bag and Box included with purchase. Avoid Water and Chemicals: Water can damage the thread, weaken the beads, and even alter the energy of the mala. Remove your mala before swimming, showering, or participating in activities that might expose it to water. Additionally, keep your mala away from perfumes, lotions, and other chemicals that can harm the beads or thread. Handling: Handle your mala gently and with respect. Avoid pulling or tugging on it forcefully, as this can strain the thread and cause it to break. When putting on or removing the mala, hold it by the beads rather than the tassel to prevent unnecessary stress on the delicate parts. Cleaning: Occasionally, you might notice your mala getting a bit dusty or dirty. To clean the beads, use a soft, dry cloth to gently wipe away any debris. Avoid using water or any cleaning products, as these can harm the beads and the thread. Cleaning cloth included with purchase. Energetic Cleansing: Malas are often used in meditation and spiritual practices, so they can absorb energies over time. Some people believe in energetically cleansing their malas. You can do this by placing the mala under moonlight or sunlight for a few hours, using sage smoke. This is a personal choice, so if it resonates with you, feel free to incorporate it into your care routine. Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect your mala for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose beads, stretched thread, or damaged tassels. This will help you catch any potential issues early on and address them before they worsen. By following these steps, you can ensure that your mala necklace remains a meaningful and cherished spiritual tool for years to come. Remember that the care you put into maintaining your mala can also symbolize the care you have for your own spiritual journey and well-being. Love yourself Wild!

Absolutely! Our mala kits and other self-love products make thoughtful and meaningful gifts. Whether it’s for a loved one’s birthday, a special anniversary, or just to show your appreciation, these one-of-a-kind creations offer a blend of beauty, intention, and personal touch. Each mala kit encourages creativity and mindfulness, making it a unique and heartfelt present. For a gift that combines elegance, positive energy, and self-care, our collection is the perfect choice! Love yourself Wild!

The use of 108 beads holds significance in various cultural, spiritual, and religious contexts around the world. Here are some examples: Hinduism: In Hinduism, the number 108 is considered sacred and is often used in various rituals, mantras, and meditation practices. It is believed that there are 108 Hindu deities, and the recitation of mantras or prayers using a mala (prayer beads) with 108 beads is seen as a way to connect with these deities and attain spiritual realization. Buddhism: In Buddhism, the number 108 is also highly significant. Some Buddhist traditions believe that there are 108 defilements or worldly desires that one must overcome to achieve enlightenment. Additionally, many Buddhists use a mala with 108 beads for counting repetitions of mantras during meditation. Japa Meditation: Japa meditation is a form of meditation that involves the repetition of a mantra or a divine name. Using a mala with 108 beads helps practitioners keep track of their repetitions, with each bead representing one repetition of the mantra. This practice aids in focusing the mind and cultivating a deeper spiritual connection. Astronomical and Mathematical Significance: The number 108 has mathematical significance as well. It is a Harshad number (divisible by the sum of its digits) and is also associated with other mathematical properties. In addition, there are said to be 27 lunar constellations in Vedic astrology, each with four directions, making a total of 108. Cosmology and Sacred Geometry: Some believe that the number 108 represents the universe's wholeness. The diameter of the Sun is approximately 108 times the diameter of Earth, and the average distance between the Earth and the Moon is about 108 times the Moon's diameter. This connection to cosmic measurements adds to the number's spiritual significance. Yoga and Chakras: In yoga, there are said to be 108 energy lines converging to form the heart chakra. Practitioners often incorporate this number into their practice, such as performing 108 sun salutations during auspicious times. Cultural Symbolism: The number 108 is present in various cultural contexts beyond Hinduism and Buddhism, including Jainism, Sikhism, and other belief systems. Its presence in these diverse traditions speaks to its universal significance. It's important to note that the significance of 108 beads can vary depending on the specific tradition and interpretation. The number's symbolic meaning is often deeply intertwined with the spiritual and philosophical beliefs of the culture in which it is being used. Love yourself Wild!

The concept of the Seven Chakras originates from ancient Indian spiritual and philosophical traditions, particularly within the practice of yoga and various schools of Hinduism and Buddhism. Chakras are believed to be centers of energy within the human body that correspond to different aspects of physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Each chakra is associated with specific qualities and functions. Here's a brief overview of the Seven Chakras: Root Chakra (Muladhara): Located at the base of the spine, this chakra is associated with stability, security, and the sense of being grounded. It relates to one's basic survival needs, physical health, and a feeling of safety. Sacral Chakra (Swadhisthana): Situated in the lower abdomen, this chakra is linked to creativity, sensuality, pleasure, and emotions. It's also connected to relationships, intimacy, and the ability to experience joy. Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura): Found in the upper abdomen, this chakra is associated with personal power, self-esteem, confidence, and motivation. It's often seen as the center of willpower and self-discipline. Heart Chakra (Anahata): Located in the chest area, this chakra is connected to love, compassion, empathy, and relationships. It represents emotional balance, acceptance, and the ability to give and receive love. Throat Chakra (Vishuddha): Positioned at the throat, this chakra is associated with communication, self-expression, and the ability to speak one's truth. It's also related to listening skills and the balance between giving and receiving communication. Third Eye Chakra (Ajna): Located between the eyebrows, this chakra is linked to intuition, insight, imagination, and spiritual awareness. It's often associated with inner wisdom and the ability to see beyond the physical realm. Crown Chakra (Sahasrara): Situated at the top of the head, this chakra is connected to spiritual connection, higher consciousness, and a sense of oneness. It represents the integration of all the other chakras and the connection to the divine. The concept of the Seven Chakras is used in various spiritual practices, energy healing, meditation, and yoga to promote balance and alignment within the body and mind. Each chakra is believed to be associated with specific colors, elements, sounds, and qualities, and practices are often used to activate, balance, and harmonize these energy centers. It's important to note that while these concepts have deep cultural and spiritual significance, they may not be scientifically proven in the same way as empirical concepts. Love yourself Wild!

Yes, you can certainly use a mala to count affirmations! A mala is a string of prayer beads commonly used in Hinduism, Buddhism, and other spiritual traditions to aid in counting prayers, mantras, or affirmations during meditation or spiritual practices. Using a mala for affirmations is a creative and personal way to integrate positive statements into your mindfulness or meditation routine. Instead of traditional mantras or prayers, you can hold each bead and repeat an affirmation that resonates with you. As you move from one bead to the next, you can focus on the affirmation, helping to center your thoughts and cultivate a positive mindset. Here's how you might go about using a mala for affirmations: Choose Your Affirmations: Select affirmations that hold meaning for you and align with your goals. These could be statements that promote self-love, confidence, gratitude, or any other positive qualities you want to cultivate. Set Your Intention: Before you begin, take a moment to set your intention for using the mala. This could be to foster self-care, reduce stress, or increase positivity in your life. Find a Quiet Space: Sit in a comfortable and quiet space where you won't be disturbed. This will help you focus your attention on your affirmations. Hold the Mala: Hold the mala in your hand with the first bead (the one next to the larger "guru" bead) between your thumb and middle finger. Repeat the Affirmation: With each bead, repeat your chosen affirmation silently or aloud. As you move from one bead to the next, you can gently pull the beads towards you using your thumb and middle finger. Continue Around the Mala: Continue repeating your affirmation for each bead on the mala. Once you've completed the entire loop and reached the guru bead, you can choose to conclude your practice or turn the mala around and continue in the opposite direction. Reflect and Breathe: Take a few moments after your practice to reflect on the experience and take a few deep breaths. Notice how you feel after focusing on your affirmations. Remember, the mala is a tool to support your practice, but the power comes from your intention and the positive energy you invest in the process. Feel free to adapt the process to suit your preferences and needs. Love yourself Wild!

Here at Mala Merkaba, we take immense pride in our meticulously handcrafted gemstone Malas. Your satisfaction is of paramount importance to us. Should you encounter any issues with your purchase, rest assured that we're here to provide assistance. Our return policy has been designed to ensure your peace of mind. You have the option to initiate a return within 14 days of receiving your order. If the gemstone Mala/ Mala Kit remains in its original purchased condition, you're eligible for a complete refund (excluding shipping charges). We genuinely care about your happiness, but it's essential to be aware that certain items follow their own tranquil journey and thus are not covered by our return policy. This category encompasses sale items, purchases made during promotional events, and personalized products, all of which are regarded as final sales. Before you send your cherished gemstone Mala back to us, please make sure to contact us first. We will provide you with the appropriate return shipping address. Your happiness remains our top priority, and we are grateful for the chance to rectify any concerns you might have. Feel free to reach out to us at hello@malamerkaba.com. Love yourself Wild!

Here is our shipping information. Domestic Shipping (Canada): We're thrilled to offer free shipping within Canada for all orders over $150 before Tax! Here's a breakdown of our shipping policies: Shipping Method: Standard Ground Shipping Shipping Time: Orders are typically processed and shipped within 1-2 business days. Once shipped, you can expect your package to arrive within 3-5 business days. Free Shipping Threshold: Enjoy free standard shipping on all orders over $150. No promo code is needed; the discount will be automatically applied at checkout. Shipping Options: For orders under $150, customers can choose from a range of shipping options during checkout. Shipping costs will be calculated based on your selected option and location. Tracking: Once your order is shipped, you will receive a tracking number via email, allowing you to keep an eye on the status of your delivery. Expedited Shipping: If you're in a hurry to receive your mala necklace, we also offer expedited shipping options for an additional fee: Expedited Shipping Method: Express 2-Day Shipping Expedited Shipping Cost: The cost for expedited shipping varies based on your location and the selected shipping option. You can see the exact shipping cost at checkout before finalizing your order. Expedited Shipping Time: Orders placed with expedited shipping before our daily cut-off time (usually 12:00 PM EST) will be processed and shipped on the same day. Deliveries are guaranteed within 2 business days. International Shipping: We're excited to announce that we now offer international shipping to the United States. Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to all countries at this time. During the checkout process, you'll be able to see if your country is eligible for international shipping and the associated shipping costs. Please note that shipping times may vary during peak holiday seasons or due to unexpected delays with our shipping partners. If you have any further questions or concerns about shipping, feel free to reach out to our customer support team at hello@malamerkaba.com. Thank you for choosing us for your mala necklace needs. We look forward to bringing a touch of serenity and beauty to your life. Love yourself Wild!