Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Japa Mala

As a part of my yoga practice and my meditation practice and my attempt to seek shanti (peace) especially in the face of crazy government furlough/bad economy/uncertainty I'm using japa mala.

Buddhist prayer beads allow me to repeat a mantra or phrase to provide stability and encouragement so I can grow as a person. Like a rosary, the mantra is repeated for each bead while the bead is turned between the thumb and forefinger. It's a great way to maintain focus so it's no wonder that Christianity reinterpreted this tradition for its own purposes!

For me, it's not about religion, it's about trying to focus on something I'm trying to work on. My mantra right now focuses on seeking peace inspite of chaos.

I made my Japa Mala out of Jasper beads, wax coated string and a silver clasp.

I needed to be able to take it off for working in the garden, swimming in the ocean, etc. and I wanted to be able to have it with me at all times. It seemed just perfect that 108 beads fit around my wrist 3 times! Love it!
I will be zen in the face of chaos. I will be zen in the face of chaos. Is it working? Am I zen? I think I feel something. Perhaps a tingle...

1 comment:

melaniet42 said...

That's awesome! You should totally sell those!!