
Sankalpa - a promise to yourself
Sankalpa is a promise we make to ourselves every single day—to manifest our deepest resolve!
5 minutes
First, as just a reminder about what is Japa Mala: The mala used for mantra recitation or chanting is called Japa Mala which usually has 108 beads (could be 11, 21 or 54). The sole purpose of this mala is to create a loop of specific mantra energy within it and locking it in the Sumeru (the first and the bigger bead of the mala). It is typically made of the same stone, seed, wood, root, so all the 108 beads are alike.
Here is a point-by-point definition to Japa malas:
Feminine/ Shakta Mantra: Mantra dedicated to Lakshmi, Saraswati, Tripura Devi, Durga etc : Red Sandal wood, Lotus Seed, Rose Quartz and Carnelian
Masculine/Shiva Mantras: Mantras dedicated of Hanuman, Ganesha, Shiva, Krishna etc. : Rudraksha, Sandalwood, Vaijyanti, Tulsi
Neutral Mantras: Mantra associated with universal consciousness like Gayatri Mantra, OM etc : Clear Quartz or Rudraksha
Meaning behind the Japa Mudra (picture below): The Japa Mudra is when we rest the mala on the ring finger (represent earth and so allows for a grounding, restful and nourishing energy). The Mala is rotated using the middle finger (represents ether or space element as consciousness) and thumb (representing fire element for transformation of vikruti into pure state of consciousness). The index finger (representing air, vata and prana is held out stretched, to allow for the inspiration from the cosmic prana and guidance from the Guru lineage). The little finger (representing water and emotions) is kept relaxed for the sentiment of the peace (shanta rasa) as the constant state of mind and the foundation of the practice.
How can you actually use this knowledge? Here is a list of FAQs about malas and practicing with mala:
Hope this information acts a guideline and serves the purpose of transformation through knowledge.
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Sankalpa is a promise we make to ourselves every single day—to manifest our deepest resolve!
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