FAQ
What are mala beads?
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Traditionally, mala beads are tools for meditation. A string of beads to count mantras in meditation (mantras are a word or sound repeated in meditation). Mala Beads traditionally feature rudraksha seeds, sandalwood beads, bodhi seeds, etc.
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Who can wear the jewelry?
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Anyone! Traditionally, mala beads are tools for meditation. A string of beads to help you focus your mind while you're sitting. The jewelry is also beautiful, and can be worn to remind you of your intention. If you're manifesting strength, love, grounding etc., you can simply wear your beads to inspire you.
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How is OMKARA unique?
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Our pieces are unique for their symbolic Guru bead. They are handmade by homeless women in Miami, using traditional techniques. Each necklace is hand knotted between every bead — this is an authentic feature of a mala. Every mala necklace uses wooden beads.
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What is the significance of having 108 beads in my mala?
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All of our malas are made to specific spiritual numbers. Some believe there are 108 stages on the journey of the human soul, while others believe there are 108 desires in mortals, matched by the same amount of lies and delusions. Others connect the number's significance to the heart chakra, as there is said to be 108 energy lines leading to it, one of which is believed to be the path to self realization.
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How do I use my mala?
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Malas are often used to help count mantras during meditation. (A mantra is a word or sound repeated to aid in your concentration during meditation.) To count your mantras, hold your mala in your hand, and turn each bead with your thumb. Reaching the guru bead during meditation, the bead that dangles from the mala, signals a time for reflection. Do not continue over the guru bead. Instead, turn around and continue in the other direction.
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How do I choose my mala?
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The simplest recommendation we have for you it let yourself be drawn to the first item that calls your attention. From there, ask yourself the following questions: What is my intention? (From here, you can choose by Guru bead or color.)
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How do I care for my mala?
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Rudraksha & Sandalwood beads are sacred and need to be treated with respect and care. We suggest you wash them every so often to remove dirt and dust, and to oil them with coconut or sandalwood oil for preservation. Due to your natural body oil, they will turn darker with wear, which is the desired effect. It's best to remove the jewelry when sleeping.Do not use any chemicals such as perfume on your mala.
Will my jewelry look the same as the photo?
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Each piece of jewelry is handmade, using different types of wooden beads. Because of this, each beads is unique. Sometimes the beads will have specks and flecks of lighter or darker colors, which occur naturally. As they are undyed, they will have variances in color.
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