Mala Mantras: Meditation and Mantras for Mala Beads

Mala mantras, a powerful tool for meditation and spiritual practice, have been used for centuries to facilitate focus, concentration, and inner peace. So in this article, we look at how to use your mala beads by understanding mala mantras with mala bead manta ideas you can try yourself. 

Brown Mala Beads
Holding Mala Beads

Related: Mala Beads Color Meaning for Mala Necklaces and Bracelets | Mala Beads: Meaning and Uses of Mala Necklace and Bracelets

Mala Beads Mantra Ideas

Mala mantras are sacred phrases or sounds that are chanted or recited during meditation. These mantras are repeated a specific number of times while using a set of mala beads, also known as prayer beads or japa malas. 

Consider the significance of different mantras and the intentions behind the practice. You can select a mantra that resonates with your spiritual or mindfulness goals.

Om (or Aum)

This is a universal mantra that is often used as a starting point for meditation and spiritual practices. It is considered to be the sound of the universe and is said to bring harmony and peace to the mind and body.

Use this mantra by holding the mala beads in one hand and reciting the mantra while moving your fingers over each bead. Repeat the mantra for a specific number of times to complete a round of meditation.

In addition to chanting the mantra, it is important to focus on the breath and the sensations in the body while using the mala beads. This can help deepen the meditation practice and increase the benefits of using mala mantras.

Whether you are new to meditation or have been practicing for years, the Aum or Om mantra can be a powerful tool to help calm the mind, reduce stress, and increase spiritual awareness.

It is a simple and accessible practice that can be done anywhere, anytime. By incorporating this mantra into your meditation practice, you can experience a sense of peace and connectedness to the world around you. 

Om Shanti Shanti Shanti

Om Shanti Shanti Shanti is a mantra from Hinduism that offers prayers for peace. “Om” represents the universal sound and the essence of ultimate reality, while “Shanti” means peace.

The repetition of the word “Shanti” is said to create a peaceful vibration that brings calmness and tranquility to the mind and spirit. It is believed that by chanting this mantra, one can invoke a sense of peace and harmony within oneself and in the world around them.

This mantra is often recited during meditation, yoga practices, or as a simple prayer for inner and outer peace. It is a reminder to cultivate a peaceful state of mind and to extend that peace to others.

Gayatri Mantra

The Gayatri Mantra is one of the most revered and powerful mantras in Hinduism. It is a verse from the Rigveda, and is addressed to the divine light, which is believed to enlighten and guide the mind. The mantra is:
ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः
तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं
भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि
धियो यो नः प्रचोदयात्॥

This translates to:
O God, Thou art the giver of life, Remover of pain and sorrow, The bestower of happiness; O Creator of the Universe, May we receive Thy supreme sin-destroying light, May Thou guide our intellect in the right direction. 

The Gayatri Mantra is considered to be a universal prayer and is often chanted at the beginning of any ritual or ceremony. It is believed that the vibrations and energy created by the chanting of this mantra can purify the mind, body, and soul, and bring about inner peace and spiritual growth.

The mantra is also said to invoke the power of the Sun, who is considered to be the symbol of the divine light and knowledge. By chanting the Gayatri Mantra, one can open up the channels of wisdom and understanding, and develop a deeper connection with the higher self.

Many Hindu households and individuals start their day by chanting the Gayatri Mantra, as it is believed to bring about positivity, clarity of thought, and protection from negative energies.

Om Bhur Bhuva Swaha 

Om Bhur Bhuva Swaha is a Sanskrit mantra from the ancient Vedic scriptures. It is often used in Hindu rituals and prayers, and it is a part of the Gayatri mantra, one of the most well-known and widely recited mantras in Hinduism. Om Bhur Bhuva Swaha roughly translates to “Earth, Atmosphere, Heaven” and is a prayer for the well-being and happiness of all beings in the world.

It is believed to be a powerful and sacred mantra that can bring peace, harmony, and positive energy when chanted with devotion and sincerity. 

The mantra is made up of three parts, each representing a different aspect of the universe. “Bhur” represents the physical realm, including the Earth and everything tangible. “Bhuva” represents the mental and emotional realm, including the atmosphere and the space around us. “Swaha” represents the spiritual realm, including heaven and higher consciousness.

When reciting this mantra, it is believed that one is invoking the blessings and energies of these three realms, and asking for their protection and support. It is also a way of recognizing the interconnectedness of all beings and seeking harmony and peace for everyone.

In Hinduism, chanting this mantra is a way of connecting with the divine and expressing gratitude for the abundance and blessings of the universe. It is often recited during the practice of yoga, meditation, and other spiritual rituals.

So Hum 

So Hum is a mantra commonly used in meditation and mindfulness practices. It is a Sanskrit phrase that translates to “I am that” or “I am that I am.”

When recited, it can help practitioners connect with their true essence and the interconnectedness of all things. It is often used to cultivate self-awareness, inner peace, and a sense of unity with the universe. 

The mantra So Hum is often used in conjunction with deep breathing exercises to help calm the mind and focus on the present moment. When inhaling, one silently repeats the sound “So,” and when exhaling, one silently repeats the sound “Hum.” This rhythmic repetition can help to quiet the mind and bring about a sense of stillness and inner peace.

So Hum can also be used as a tool for self-reflection and self-inquiry. By repeating the mantra, individuals can contemplate the deeper meaning of the phrase “I am that,” and explore their connection to the world around them. This can lead to a greater sense of empathy, compassion, and interconnectedness with others.

As well as its use in meditation, So Hum can also be used as a grounding and centering technique in everyday life. When faced with stress or anxiety, simply silently repeating the mantra can bring about a sense of calm and balance.

Aham Prema

Aham Prema is a Sanskrit mantra that translates to “I am divine love” or “I am pure love.” It is recited as a form of self-affirmation to connect with the energy of love and compassion within oneself. 

This mantra is a reminder that love is our true nature and that we are worthy of giving and receiving love.

By repeating Aham Prema, we can cultivate feelings of self-love, acceptance, and kindness towards ourselves and others.

When we are feeling disconnected from love or going through difficult times, reciting Aham Prema can help us to tap into our inner source of love and find peace and comfort within. It can also be used to send love and healing energy to others, by visualizing the energy of love flowing from our hearts to theirs.

Aham Prema can be chanted aloud or silently, and can be integrated into a daily meditation practice or used as a mantra in moments of stress or anxiety. By connecting with the essence of divine love within ourselves, we can foster a greater sense of inner peace, joy, and emotional well-being.

Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu

Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu is a Sanskrit mantra that translates to “May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all.” 

It is a mantra of compassion and goodwill towards all living beings. It is often used in meditation and prayer with Mala beads to focus and redirect the mind towards positive and benevolent thoughts. 

This mantra is a reminder to cultivate feelings of love, empathy, and kindness towards all beings, and to contribute to the well-being and freedom of others through our own thoughts, words, and actions. It serves as a powerful tool for mindfulness and compassion, helping to promote a sense of interconnectedness and unity with all living beings.

By repeating this mantra, one can shift their focus from self-centered desires to a more altruistic and compassionate mindset, ultimately leading to a greater sense of peace and fulfillment. It is a beautiful and uplifting practice that encourages us to extend our love and goodwill to all beings, promoting harmony and well-being on a universal level.

Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha

Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha is a Sanskrit mantra that is dedicated to Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom and success. When translated, it means “Om and salutations to the remover of obstacles.”

This mantra is often chanted to seek Ganesha’s blessings and to overcome any challenges or obstacles in life. It is believed that chanting this mantra can help to bring about positive changes and clear the path for success and prosperity. 

The Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha mantra is considered to be very powerful and is often chanted at the beginning of new ventures or important undertakings to seek Ganesha’s guidance and blessings. It is believed that by chanting this mantra with devotion and sincerity, one can overcome any hurdles and achieve success in various aspects of life, whether it be in personal, professional, or spiritual endeavors.

Chanting this mantra regularly is said to bring about clarity of thought and wisdom, guiding individuals towards making the right decisions and taking the right actions. It is also believed to bring about inner peace and harmony, helping individuals to overcome any inner obstacles or negativities that may be holding them back.

As well as seeking success and wisdom, the Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha mantra is also chanted to seek Ganesha’s protection and blessings for oneself and loved ones. It is believed that by invoking Ganesha’s name and chanting this mantra, one can receive his divine protection and grace, ensuring safety and well-being.

Om Bhagavate Vasudevaya

Om Bhagavate Vasudevaya is a mantra dedicated to Lord Vasudeva, a form of the Hindu god Krishna. It is a powerful mantra that is chanted to seek blessings, protection, and guidance from Lord Vasudeva. This mantra is often recited by devotees during meditation, prayer, or as a part of their spiritual practice.

It is believed that chanting this mantra can bring peace, harmony, and spiritual growth to the devotee.  The word “Om” is the universal sound of creation and represents the essence of the ultimate reality. “Bhagavate” refers to the divine and glorious aspect of the deity being worshipped, and “Vasudevaya” is a reference to Lord Vasudeva, who is known as the supreme lord and the embodiment of love and compassion.

When chanted with sincerity and devotion, this mantra is believed to help the devotee connect with the divine energy of Lord Vasudeva, inviting his presence into their lives. It is said to purify the mind and heart, helping to dispel negative thoughts and emotions, and bringing about a sense of inner peace and contentment.

Chanting this mantra regularly is also believed to offer protection from negative energies and obstacles, as well as to bestow blessings for success, abundance, and spiritual growth.

Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha

Om Tare Tuttare Ture Soha is a Tibetan Buddhist mantra associated with the Bodhisattva of compassion, Tara. It is believed to invoke the blessings and protection of Tara and is often recited to overcome obstacles, fears, and negative energies.

Each syllable of the mantra is said to have a specific meaning and the overall mantra is believed to bring about positive and compassionate energy.  The first syllable, “Om,” represents Tara’s body, speech, and mind in a purified state. “Tare” is the liberating aspect of Tara, freeing followers from suffering. “Tuttare” signifies protection against danger and fear, while “Ture” symbolizes the removal of all illnesses and negative forces. Finally, “Soha” is a common Buddhist mantra ending, signifying the dedication of the practice to enlightenment.

Reciting the mantra is believed to bring about Tara’s compassionate energy and help followers develop inner strength and compassion. It is often chanted as a form of meditation or as a way to seek Tara’s assistance in times of need.

The mantra can be recited by anyone, regardless of their religious or spiritual beliefs, and is often used as a way to cultivate a compassionate and positive mindset.

Sat Nam

This is a Kundalini yoga mantra that means “truth is my identity.” It is a mantra for connecting with one’s true self and removing obstacles from one’s path. 

Use this mantra by holding the mala beads in one hand and reciting the mantra while moving your fingers over each bead. Repeat the mantra for a specific number of times to complete a round of meditation.

Sat Nam can also be used as a daily affirmation, repeating it to yourself in moments of self-doubt or when you need to reconnect with your inner truth.

By embodying the essence of this mantra, you can cultivate a deep sense of authenticity and presence in your life.

In Kundalini yoga, the repetition of mantras is a tool for shifting energy and creating a state of inner peace and clarity. By incorporating Sat Nam into your practice, you can tap into the transformative energy of this mantra and connect with your true nature.

Sat Nam can serve as a guiding light on your spiritual journey, helping you to align with your highest self and live from a place of truth and authenticity. 

Om Mani Padme Hum

Om Mani Padme Hum is a widely known and significant mantra in Buddhism. It is associated with the Tibetan tradition and is believed to invoke the blessings of Avalokiteshvara, the bodhisattva of compassion.

The mantra is said to bring positive energy, compassion, and enlightenment. The literal translation of the mantra is “Hail the jewel in the lotus,” and it is believed that each syllable of the mantra represents different aspects of enlightenment. 

 The six syllables of Om Mani Padme Hum represent the purification of the six realms of existence – the realms of hell, hungry ghosts, animals, humans, jealous gods, and gods.

By reciting the mantra, practitioners aim to purify these realms and cultivate qualities such as compassion, wisdom, and love.

The mantra is also believed to have the power to transform negative emotions and purify negative karma. It is often recited in various forms of Buddhist practices, including meditation, prayer, and rituals.

In addition to its spiritual significance, Om Mani Padme Hum is also considered a powerful mantra for healing and protection. It is often used to invoke the blessings of Avalokiteshvara in times of difficulty or distress.

Om Namah Shivaya

Om Namah Shivaya is a popular Hindu mantra that is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed to have the power to cleanse the soul and bring inner peace and harmony.

The mantra itself is composed of five syllables: “Om”, “Na”, “Ma”, “Shi”, and “Va”, each of which represents different aspects of Lord Shiva. “Om” is the universal sound and represents the divine energy, “Na” represents earth, “Ma” represents water, “Shi” represents fire, and “Va” represents air.

Chanting this mantra is said to help connect with these elements and bring balance and harmony to the body and mind.

The repetition of Om Namah Shivaya has a purifying effect on the consciousness and can help release negative thought patterns and emotions. It is also said to bring peace and calmness to the mind, helping individuals to connect with their inner selves and with the divine.

Devotees of Lord Shiva often chant this mantra as a way to express their devotion and seek his blessings. It is also commonly used in yoga and meditation practices to help achieve a state of deep relaxation and focus.

How to Use Mantras for Mala Beads

Woman with Mala Beads
Woman with Mala Beads

Consider the meaning and the intention behind different mantras and select one that aligns with your spiritual or mindfulness goals. It can be a traditional Sanskrit mantra, a simple affirmation, or a word that holds personal significance for you.

Before starting your mala meditation practice, set an intention for your mantra repetition. This can be a specific goal or intention you want to focus on during your meditation, such as finding inner peace, cultivating gratitude, or promoting self-love.

Traditionally, mala beads have 108 beads, so practitioners often repeat their chosen mantra 108 times. However, you can choose any number of repetitions that feels comfortable for you, such as 27, 54, or even just a few rounds of the mala beads.

Find a quiet and comfortable space for your mala meditation practice. You may want to light a candle, burn incense, or play calming music to create a peaceful and conducive atmosphere for meditation.

Hold the mala beads in your right hand and begin at the guru bead (the larger bead at the center of the mala). Use your thumb to count each bead as you repeat your chosen mantra. You can also use a specific mudra (hand gesture) that resonates with your intention.

As you move through the mala beads, concentrate on your breath and repeat your chosen mantra with each bead. Allow the rhythm of the mala beads and the repetition of the mantra to guide you into a meditative state.

Throughout your mala meditation practice, try to remain present and open-minded. If your mind starts to wander or you become distracted, gently guide your focus back to your breath and your mantra.

After completing your mala meditation practice, take a moment to reflect on how you feel and any insights or emotions that arose during the practice. You can journal about your experience or simply take a few moments of quiet reflection.

The power of mala meditation lies in the intention and focus you bring to your practice. With dedication and mindfulness, using mantras with mala beads can be a powerful tool for cultivating inner peace, clarity, and spiritual growth. 

Benefits of Chanting Mala Mantras

Practicing Yoga with Mala Beads
Practicing Yoga with Mala Beads

Chanting mala mantras can help reduce stress and anxiety, as it calms the mind and brings a sense of tranquility. The rhythmic repetition of the mantra can create a meditative state, allowing the practitioner to let go of worries and tension.

It can cultivate inner peace and a sense of serenity by helping the practitioner to quiet the mind and connect with their inner self, promoting a sense of calm and contentment.

Chanting mantras with mala beads can help maintain focus and attention during meditation. The physical act of counting the beads while chanting the mantra can keep the mind centered and present, allowing for a deeper meditative experience.

The repetition of the sacred mantra can create a strong resonance with the divine, leading to a deeper connection with the higher self or spiritual energy.

Chanting mala mantras can enhance the overall meditation practice. It can bring a sense of depth and devotion to the practice, as well as help the practitioner to go deeper into their meditation and explore their spiritual journey.