Black Obsidian Chakra Prayer Mala
Chakra stones and Black Obsidian beads are combined with a dyed lava bead and
matching tassel. Divine accessories that seamlessly blend style with
mindfulness. Each strand crafted with gemstones and a single lava bead.
Chakra
is a Sanskrit word that means wheel. It refers to the energy centers
found in the body. Most Eastern traditions describe seven major chakras
positioned along the midline of the body from the base of the spine to
the crown of the head.
This black natural glass has been
formed from the rapid cooling of lava. Because it is easily splintered
into sharp fragments, obsidian has long been used in making knives,
arrowheads and sculptures. In healing circles, it is known as a stone of
protection with grounding properties, it is often used to clear
subconscious blocks and to absorb and disperse negativity.
In
translation, japa means repetitive prayer and mala means garland. The
beads are used to count repetitions of prayers, chants or mantras to aid
one's focus on the meaning or sound of the mantra. One repetition is
usually said for each bead while turning the bead clockwise with the
thumb.
Malas were traditionally used by the Buddhist, Hindu and
Sikh traditions, however their use has spread to western culture. The
109th bead is the sumeru or guru bead, counting should start and end on
either side of this bead. There are many styles of holding and using the
mala and many types of mantras, therefore individual research is
recommended to find the style that works for each individual.
A good mantra to get started with is Om Mani Padme Hum which essentially stands for universal compassion.
Measurements: Main beads 6 mm, lava bead 10 mm. The mala is approximately 30" including the tassel. This mala was crafted using stretchy cording.