Grounded in Nature Mala
Long have I love malas, then again I love all sorts of spiritual tools and decor even if not directly related to my faith.
While malas are far from a rarity in the makings of spiritual art I always try to put a special spin on anything I make...
While malas are far from a rarity in the makings of spiritual art I always try to put a special spin on anything I make...
Wood of the Earth Mala
The traditional mala, similar to the one above, is made from 108 beads strung, with the strand being enclosed by the "stupa" (sometimes called the "Guru bead") which is the 109th bead. The 108 beads are used to keep count in the recitation of a prayer or mantra, while the 109th bead signifies the end of a set of recitations.
For me I do not restrict myself to any material or shape for my malas, using both round beads as well as bead chips. When I make mine I also crochet the strands, and typically with it double stranded with wire and hemp. Originally the crocheting allowed for their to be some space between the bead chips to make them easier to count, but it soon became a staple among the ones I make.
For me I do not restrict myself to any material or shape for my malas, using both round beads as well as bead chips. When I make mine I also crochet the strands, and typically with it double stranded with wire and hemp. Originally the crocheting allowed for their to be some space between the bead chips to make them easier to count, but it soon became a staple among the ones I make.
Another penchant I have with my mala-making is to dedicate my strands to specific energies. With above I was guided to using stones to help ground and keep you on your path with love (Finding Your Way), while the other I chose stones that embodied energy that related to the Greek goddess Athena (Aid of Athena Mala).
Most of the time I try to let Spirit guide me with the choices of symbolism I relate to, but with Athena's mala a little academic research and communing with Her followers was involved.
Other strands have a more general focus or are less traditionally related to Pagan ways like with the two below (which are both for sale in my store at the moment of this posting.)
Most of the time I try to let Spirit guide me with the choices of symbolism I relate to, but with Athena's mala a little academic research and communing with Her followers was involved.
Other strands have a more general focus or are less traditionally related to Pagan ways like with the two below (which are both for sale in my store at the moment of this posting.)
With these malas it was more the striking colors of the stones and a combination of the imagery they evoked that lead to their creation. Nonetheless they still hold a spiritual quality to them.
Then of course there is one of the latest malas I have made for the Cosmic Web Challenge (read more about that here and see submissions by other artists!) I knew the moment I heard what the theme was what I would be making - a mala dedicated to Aphrodite Pandemos, the epithet associated with Her and Her compassionate love for all. Sounded like the perfect thing to help open your heart chakra to compassion and love!
Then of course there is one of the latest malas I have made for the Cosmic Web Challenge (read more about that here and see submissions by other artists!) I knew the moment I heard what the theme was what I would be making - a mala dedicated to Aphrodite Pandemos, the epithet associated with Her and Her compassionate love for all. Sounded like the perfect thing to help open your heart chakra to compassion and love!
Aphrodite Pandemos Mala
So tell me, in the comments below, which one so far is your favorite? Do you own any, if so what are they made of? Be sure to connect with me on social media too & join the newsletter if you haven't already!
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