How to use japamala: learn the steps to meditation and gratitude

It has Indian origins and looks like a Catholic rosary, but has 108 beads of equal size and helps with meditation. You know how to use japamala? We have prepared a guide on the subject, with step-by-step instructions for including the item in your spiritual self-care routine!

What is japamala?

“Japa” means “whisper” or “pray”, while “mala” refers to “cord” or “chaplet”. It consists of a string of beads used in spiritual practices, including meditation and Yoga. It is used to help count repetitions of mantras and breaths, in addition to being considered a lucky charm.

Following tradition, it must be made with natural materials, such as wood, seeds or stones. The cord is made of cotton. But there are versions made of synthetic materials for sale in stores.

108 beads meaning

The traditional japamala features 108 beads, which is considered a sacred number. It represents the number of repetitions of the Yoga sun salutation, of Sanskrit phonemes, of Ayurvedic body energy points…

The spiritual accessory can also be found with 54 beads (half of 108) or 27 (1/4 of 108). In these cases, you must take the necessary turns until you reach the complete ritual.

How to use japamala?

Japamala offers some usage options. You can bet on the counts to help count mantra repetitions, conscious breaths and gratitude for the day. The item can also be turned into a lucky charm, worn as a necklace or wrapped around the arm like a bracelet.

How to use japamala mantras?

The so-called Japa meditation consists of repeating a mantra, which is a syllable or poem, usually in Sanskrit. The objective is to relax, find inner peace and induce a meditative state. Follow the step by step how to use japamala in the process:

Preferably, sit with your spine straight and close your eyes. It is also possible to do this meditation lying down, standing up and even walking. Take a few deep breaths to connect with the present moment. Place the japamala on the middle finger of your right hand and touch your thumb to the first bead, which is next to the meru (extra bead). Chant the mantra. Pull the next ball with your thumb, always towards you, and repeat the mantra. Do this until the japamala is finished.

Mantra options:

Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha: mantra to the Hindu god Ganesha.
Om Mani Padme Hum: reverence to the “Jewel of the Lotus”.
Om Namah Shivaya: mantra to the Hindu god Shiva.
Om Shreem Mahalakshmiyei Namaha: reverence to the Hindu goddess Lakshmi.

How to use japamala in Ho’oponopono?

Ho’oponopono is the combination of “Hoo” (cause) and “ponopono” (perfection). This is an ancient Hawaiian practice that seeks to heal the body, mind and spirit through cleansing and purifying thoughts, emotions and energy fields.

To put victimhood aside and transmute memories, blocks, weaknesses and discomforts, you must repeat the following four phrases: “I’m sorry. Forgive me. I love you. I am grateful.” Do this 108 times, pulling each japamala bead to guide the count.

To enhance the effect, you can conclude the ritual with the original Ho’oponopono prayer:

“Divine Creator, Father, Mother, Son, all in One. If I, my family, my relatives and ancestors, offend your family, relatives and ancestors, in thoughts, facts or actions, from the beginning of our creation to the present, we ask for your forgiveness. Let it clear, purify, release and cut all negative memories, blockages, energies and vibrations. Transmute these undesirable energies into pure light and so it is.

To clear my subconscious of all the emotional charge stored in it, I say the ho’oponopono keywords over and over again during my day: I’m sorry, forgive me, I love you, I’m grateful. I declare myself at peace with all people on Earth and with whom I have outstanding debts.

For this moment and in its time, for everything that I don’t like in my present life: I’m sorry, forgive me, I love you, I’m grateful. I release all those from whom I believe I am receiving harm and mistreatment, because they simply give back to me what I did to them before, in some past life: I am sorry, forgive me, I love you, I am grateful.

Even though it is difficult for me to forgive someone, I am the one asking that person for forgiveness now. For this moment, at all times, for everything that I don’t like in my present life: I’m sorry, forgive me, I love you, I’m grateful. For this sacred space that I inhabit day after day and with which I am not comfortable: I am sorry, forgive me, I love you, I am grateful. For the difficult relationships of which I only have bad memories: I’m sorry, forgive me, I love you, I’m grateful.

For everything that I don’t like in my present life, in my past life, in my work and what is around me, Divinity, cleanse in me what is contributing to my scarcity: I’m sorry, forgive me, I love you. I love, I’m grateful.

If my physical body experiences anxiety, worry, guilt, fear, sadness, pain, I say it and think: “my memories, I love you. I am grateful for the opportunity to free you and me.” I’m sorry, forgive me, I love you, I’m grateful.

At this moment, I say that I love you. I think about my emotional health and that of all my loved ones. I love you. For my needs and to learn to wait without anxiety, without fear, I recognize my memories here in this moment: I’m sorry, forgive me, I love you, I’m grateful.

Beloved Mother Earth, which is who I am: if I, my family, my relatives and ancestors have mistreated you with thoughts, words, facts and actions, from the beginning of our creation to the present, I ask for your forgiveness. Let it cleanse and purify, release and cut all memories, blockages, energies and negative vibrations. Transmute these undesirable energies into pure light and so it is.

To conclude, I say that this prayer is my door, my contribution to your emotional health, which is the same as mine. So be well and, as you heal, I tell you that: I am sorry for the memories of pain that I share with you. I ask your forgiveness for joining my path to yours for healing, I thank you for being here in me. I love you for who you are.”

How to use japamala in meditation?

Conscious breathing can help you control your air, your mind, and yourself. See how to include japamala in this meditation:

Sit in the lotus posture: with your spine straight, legs crossed and feet on your thighs, just above your knees. Place the japalamala on the middle finger of your right hand, touch the first bead with your thumb and do the chosen breathing process. Pull the second bead and do it again, repeating the process until the end of the japamala. Breathing suggestion: breathe through your nose, slowly and deeply, directing the air to the lower part of your belly. Pause for one to two seconds. Exhale slowly through your nose. Pause again for one to two seconds. If thoughts arise, connect with the sensation of holding the japamala and return your focus to your breath.

How to use japamala for gratitude?

Research indicates that people who are in the habit of being grateful tend to have higher levels of positive emotions, life satisfaction and optimism. They also tend to sleep better and do more physical activity. Thus, there is a reduction in negative thoughts and help in dealing with stress, problems and traumas. Let’s go step by step how to use japalama for gratitude:

In a quiet place, sit or lie down, keeping your spine straight. Take a few deep breaths to relax and connect with the present moment. With the japalamala on the middle finger of your right hand, touch the first bead with your thumb and give thanks for something. Pull the second bead and make a new thank you. Repeat the process until the japamala is complete. It’s okay to be grateful for the same thing over and over again, but challenge yourself to identify other everyday details that deserve your gratitude.

Read more: what are chakras, original Ho’oponopono prayer It is attraction law.