How to Choose the Right Mala

People ask us this question all the time: “With all of the styles and gemstones and options out there, how do I choose the right mala beads for me?” Our answer: You really can't choose the wrong one. That’s because malas are extremely personal pieces of jewelry, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for finding a mala that best fits your soul. Every person will be attracted to a different mala, or will be looking to set a different intention with their mindful mala beads. 

However, we do have a few helpful tips for how to find the best mala for you:

Get in the mala mood

Though it certainly isn’t a must, getting in a more mindful, intentional mindset before choosing your mala can make it a little easier to find the piece that best speaks to your soul. Try lighting a candle or diffusing some essential oils, and make sure to set aside plenty of time for your search so you don’t feel too rushed. 

You may even want to do a quick meditation to bring yourself into a calmer state, and you could also do a 5-minute writing exercise to write down your biggest goals, struggles and dreams. Take a look at what you’ve written to see if there are any common threads or themes between them that could help you get clearer on what you’re looking for or needing from a mala.

Trust your heart

Our very best advice for choosing a mala? Follow your instincts! For many people, it’s literally as simple as choosing the mala that their soul is immediately drawn to or that catches their eye first. Try not to get too caught up into thinking about which mala makes the most sense for you; instead, let your heart lead the way and allow your soul to guide you.

Another tip: If you can’t decide immediately which mala you’re most drawn to, step away for a little while, then check in with yourself later to figure out which mala you can’t stop thinking about. Chances are, that’s the perfect piece for you.

Think about the purpose

Consider the way you’ll be using your mala: Will you be meditating with it? Wearing it during yoga? Using it as a daily reminder to stay mindful and well? Keeping your mala’s purpose in mind is helpful when choosing the piece that’s right for you.

If you plan to you use your mala for traditional mantra meditation, you’ll likely want one of the classic 108-bead mala necklaces. If you’re a yogi who wants to wear your mala during your practice, you may want to consider trying one of our wrap malas, which can be wrapped around your wrist so it doesn’t get in your way throughout your practice. Just want your mala to be a reminder of your daily intentions? You could choose everything from the classic mala necklace to a bracelet or wrap mala.

Search by intention

Some people prefer to choose a mala that best aligns with their intentions. To do so, ask yourself some of the following questions:

-What do I want to create or cultivate in my life?
-What am I seeking?
-What am I most challenged by?
-What am I working on, emotionally or spiritually?

Once you’ve gotten really clear on your intentions and what your soul needs, trying using our new Gemstone Guide to find out which gemstone best aligns with these intentions. For example, if you’re looking to cultivate greater compassion for yourself and others, rose quartz—which promotes love, compassion and tenderness—may be a great fit for you. If you’re looking to build inner strength, courage and confidence, smoky quartz could be your best bet.

Consider the color

Another easy way you can choose your next mala? Go by color, either by choosing a mala in your favorite hue or by finding a color that gives you what you’re looking for in life. For example, if you need a boost of joy and energy, choose something bright or bold, such as howlite turquoise or yellow jade. If you need a calming presence in your life, try something more soothing and muted, such as labradorite or amazonite. 

Pick by profession

Because we spend so much time in a work environment, choosing a mala that best serves your profession is another easy way to narrow down your search. If you’re a writer or in a creative profession, for example, you might want to choose something that eases communication, provides inspiration and helps spark your creativity (such as amazonite, sodalite or Botswana agate). If you work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, try choosing something that’s calming, soothing and provides inner strength (like aquamarine, howlite turquoise or black lava stone.)

Just remember: Everyone will be drawn to a different mala, and there’s no wrong way to find the one that’s right for you. Just trust your heart, and the perfect mala will come to you. (But if you do need some help choosing, just email us at info@malaandmantra.com and we’d be happy to assist!)