M A L A S ( P R A Y E R B E A D S )
Malas are the Tibetan form of prayer beads. Most Tibetans have either a mala or a prayer wheel in their hand during many hours of the day. The are used for counting mantras or prostrations, and act as a means of keeping one’s mind in focus on their Dharma practice rather than mundane activities. Tibetan malas are typically made from wood, seeds, bone, ivory, and minerals, such as lapis, coral, or turquoise.
