FAQ

A mantra, which is the Sanskrit word for sound, syllable, word or group of words, is believed by some to have psychological and spiritual power. Mantras are repeated during meditation to help create focus and self-transformation. Malas are used so that one can focus on the meaning of the mantra rather than think about counting repetitions. When repeating a personal mantra, the meditator can calm the mind to allow deeper levels of relaxation and awareness. For example, “I change my thoughts; I change my world” is a mantra you may recognize by the author of the book “The Power of Positive Thinking”.  Check back soon for a blog post on some of our favorite mantras.

As this is a traditional practice passed down through time, the significance of 108 beads on your mala is open for interpretation. The number 108 is significant for so many reasons but there will most likely be one or two that really resonate and feel right for you. Check out our blog post on the topic for an in depth look at the significance of 108.

If you would like to use your mala for meditation, start by holding your mala beads in your right or left hand (whatever feels right for you). Rest the first bead, located beside the guru bead, between your middle finger and thumb. Begin reciting your chosen mantra, counting each repetition by moving to the next bead. With each count the thumb pulls another bead in place over the middle finger. Our malas are knotted between each stone, making the movement from each stone easier. When you complete one set of mantra repetition (once you reach the guru bead), flip the mala around 180 degrees and continue in the opposite direction. Tradition states you should never pass over the guru bead to continue.

When not used for meditation, your mala can be worn to bring comfort, peace and focus. You may also choose to store it in a special place or display it on your altar.

Traditionally, tassels are symbolic of lotus blossoms, which represent and promote enlightenment. If you’ve never worn a mala before, you will soon find out how comforting the tassel on your mala is. It often becomes a habit to touch the tassel to sooth and calm the mind, sometimes without even realizing it.

Om charms are representative of a common mantra used in meditation and prayer, and are said to bring luck, harmony, peace and tranquility to the wearer.

After continued wear and use, you may wish to clean your mala. Please do so gently. A simple dry soft or micro-fiber cleaning cloth is perfect for cleaning and polishing your mala beads. To freshen up your tassel, you can dip it in warm water (with a mild detergent if you wish) and hang to dry. If needed, your tassel can be ironed on a low setting and trimmed at the end with a sharp pair of scissors.

Mala beads are believed to absorb and store energy, therefore depending on your preference, you may wish to cleanse your mala beads from time to time. There are a few different ways to cleanse your mala.; it is up to personal preference. One may place it in the moonlight overnight, burn sage over it, and/or expose it to sound vibration. Please note you can also cleanse your mala by placing it in the sunlight, but we recommend that it be for no more than 10 mins since sunlight can change the colour of some gemstones.  Our malas are treated to moonlight cleansing and sage burning, so it is not necessary to cleanse before wearing.

While many believe in the healing qualities of various gemstones, we do not intend for these products to treat, cure or prevent any disease. The results are the sole responsibility of the one wearing it. Please consult your health care professional regarding the treatment of any medical condition.

All our pieces are handmade, therefore some knots can be knotted a bit too tight over others. By wearing the mala, it will eventually hang straighter naturally. You may also pull gently on the beads to stretch the knot and straighten.

A mala break can be upsetting and confusing at times. Did you know that there is beautiful symbolism behind why a mala breaks. You can read more about it here: http://malarae.com/my-mala-broke-what-does-it-mean/

Malas that are broken (e.g. as a result of breaking a “karmic” cycle) can be sent back once for repair at no extra cost up to 60 days after purchase. Bracelets can be sent back once for repair for up to 14 days after purchase. After which, there will be a minimal charge to repair both malas and bracelets. Repairs may take between four to six weeks to complete. Shipping costs are not covered. MalaRae is not responsible for any items lost in the repair or shipping process.

MalaRae jewelry that has been worn, including both bracelets and malas, cannot be returned as they carry very specific energetic qualities.

From the moment your item is delivered, you have 7 working days to return any unworn jewelry that still has its tags. The purchase amount, excluding shipping if applicable, will be refunded.

If your mala breaks within 7 days of arrival, or arrives broken, please contact us right away for an exchange. In this case, we will cover the cost of shipping.

Please note: Items purchased on sale or at a discounted rate are considered final sale and are not eligible for refund or exchange.

We are always open to having our jewelry sold in studios and retail stores. If you are looking to resell our jewelry, please contact us for wholesale pricing.