GOOD QUALITY - These natural and beautiful malas are made of rudraksha which is a seed that is used as a prayer bead in Hinduism (especially in Shaivism). These are good quality beads when worn as a necklace or a bracelet impart the wearer with extra energy, power and clarity of thought. They are said to be beneficial in the control of stress, and offer many other health benefits. BALANCE - Rudraksha have been traditionally used as prayer beads since ages and they are associated with Lord Shiva and are commonly worn by his devotees. They are worn as a form of protection as they provide a kind of protective energy to the wearer. Meditation using Rudraksha beads brings the blessings in the form of positivity and balance. ENERGY - Rudraksha mala is associated with the fire energy, the element that purifies and transmutes the heavier and denser base materials into the light and warmth of pure spirit. This spiritual movement is helpful in focusing the mind and concentrating during meditation, prayer and mantra japas. 108 BEADS - The rudraksha beads are strung together as a mala and are used to count the repetition of a mantra or prayer. Most these garlands contain 108 beads because as108 is considered sacred and a suitable number of times to recite a short mantra. SPIRITUALLY ACTIVATED - These malas were spiritually activated with Mantras by a Panditji (Priest) and then placed in a natural burlap jute pouch before shipping them to Canada. Please note: The beads are commonly strung on a white or red cotton thread. The thread is not strung too tightly because otherwise it damages the rudraksha.