Buddha bracelet

Coping with stress in the middle of your day can be difficult. I remember feeling adrift in the office because my meditative space was at home and wasn’t with me on the road.

Luckily I was wearing my Buddha bracelet, sounds funny, right? But it made all the difference. Let me explain. 

What Is a Buddha bracelet?

The Buddha bracelet is a bracelet of beads used in prayer. Also known as mala beads, this piece of jewelry consists of 108 beads or a number that can multiply to 108. For example, if the bracelet has 27 beads, those beads get counted four times during prayer. 

There are several possible reasons behind the number of beads on a bracelet. These include the representation of dharmas or kleshas.

Similar prayer beads exist in several world religions. Those religions include Hinduism, Christianity, and Sikhism. The bracelets may have a different number of beads than the Buddha bracelet.

The idea behind the bracelets is that it is easier to focus on the prayers if the bracelet does the counting. Those who use the Buddha bracelet will recite prayers, mantras, and other phrases. They'll do this as they pass their fingers from bead to bead.

Sometimes, you can get a Buddha bracelet with an extra bead you do not use for prayer. This extra bead is the guru bead. It is sometimes said to store good energy. The guru bead can also help you keep track of where you are in your meditation.

The bracelet may consist of metals, bone, seeds, wood, and other synthetic materials. The design of this bracelet somewhat resembles prayer beads used by other religions.

Specific types of beads often exist in Buddha bracelets. Some materials include pearls, gold, silver, lotus seeds, and wood. This bracelet can range in size, and you can even wear it as a necklace on occasion. 

There are also various designs of Buddha bracelets. Many refer to cuff bangles or dharma wheel bracelets as Buddha bracelets. Yet, the traditional Buddha bracelet is one consisting of beads. 

Some Buddha bracelets also contain metal charms. These often get individualized to the wearer of the bracelet. The charms are more of a fashion element and personalization. 

The History of the Buddha bracelet

The history of the Buddha bracelet is unknown, but some historical records offer insight. The first mention of mala beads was during the Han dynasty.

The practice was likely around before that period. Several religions have similar beads, so the Buddha bracelet could originate from several faiths. 

These bracelets may function in a religious or spiritual capacity. Despite this, they may have non-religious origins. Buddha bracelet first received religious depiction during the Song Dynasty. Individual use was likely common before this point when its use became widespread. 

This type of jewelry often played a role in indicating affluence rather than piety. The bracelets became popular gifts in the Ming and Qing dynasties to those who could afford them. Some Buddha bracelets were so expensive that they needed to be regulated on a legal scale.

Different geographic areas practicing Buddhism developed other practices around the bracelet. Tibetan Buddhism and Nepalese Buddhism began using specific designs and materials.

The bracelets started adopting extra marker beads. These were cords that can mark your place. They also used particular beads to show different practice levels. Some beads symbolized fundamental Buddhist elements, such as the Triple Gem of Buddha.

The Three Gems represent Buddha, the Buddhist dharma, and the sangha. Buddha represents an understanding of reciprocity. As we need Buddha, Buddha needs us. 

The dharma represents the teachings of the Buddha on love and understanding. It serves to remind us to remember how to love and how to understand. 

The sangha represents the community. In practicing and sharing our meditation, we radiate harmony and awareness.

These bracelets became popular in non-religious contexts during the 20th and 21st centuries. While this preference has been around for centuries, interest is spreading. Buddha bracelets used for religious purposes don't often feature as a fashion choice.

Buddha bracelet Meaning

So, what is a Buddha bracelet meaning? The answer may be more complex than you think.

Buddha bracelet meanings may differ depending on the specific materials used. It also depends on how you use the bracelets or any blessings received on the bracelet. The way you use your bracelet is personal and steeped in centuries of tradition.

Inherent Properties of Bracelet Materials

Buddhists believe there may be benefits to a bracelet made from a specific material. For example, if you encounter a particular issue in your life, a type of material might be beneficial.

Certain materials aim to provide different results as you use your Buddha bracelet. The users of the bracelets believe energy resonates within the materials used.

If you want to increase something in your life, pray with a bracelet made from gold, copper, or lotus seeds. A prayer for appeasement works best with crystal, pearl, or some other white material.

A bracelet made from wooden or fragrant beads can overcome something negative. If you are praying to tame someone, use beads made from human bone or seeds.

In other cases, Buddha bracelet may receive a blessing with a mantra or other recitation. Buying a Buddha bracelet from a monastery can be a memorable experience. The piece you receive may have blessings placed on it from the monks at the monastery. 

These blessings may relate to several topics. They include health, strength, overcoming adversity, and fertility.

Many people believe Buddha bracelets absorb negative or positive energy. The belief is that prayers and blessings bring good energy. Exposure to the outside environment can reduce the positive energy in the beads. As a result, people often wear their beads concealed from view.

Traditional Practice

The traditional Buddha bracelet's meaning relates to its use in meditation practice. You should start traditional meditation by settling into a comfortable position. It should be in a tranquil environment. Try to relax in a seated position, with your eyes closed.

Once you are comfortable, you may start focusing on your breath. Once you feel settled in your breath, you may bring out your Buddist bracelet. You should hold your bracelets in your right hand and use your thumb to start counting the beads.

Choose your mantra before your meditation session. This mantra will be a Sanskrit word that aims to help you achieve what you want. While you can choose your mantra, in some cases, you can also receive a mantra from a teacher. It is normal to try out a few mantras before finding your ideal match.

As you count each bead with your thumb, repeat your mantra. You may recite your mantra in your head or out loud. You will likely want to play around a bit when it comes to your pacing and the role your breath plays in meditation. You can synchronize your breath with your mantra as a way to focus.

Personal Practice

You can choose a meaning for your Buddha bracelet based on the options I've discussed. At the end of the day, your bracelet’s meaning is whatever you want it to be. It is good to let the centuries of tradition of Buddha bracelet guide you.

It is also a good idea to consider the personal side of your meditation practice. That is to say, think of what you want your particular practice to come to.

This consideration can range from choosing your bracelet to how you use it. Some people prefer certain materials for the qualities they may contain. Others might pick their pieces based on what bracelet connects with them and their needs.

Some people use this bracelet to improve their daily gratitude practice. Some people also use it for breathing during meditation. Rather than saying a prayer or repeating a mantra, you can think of something you are grateful for.

Fashion

What is a Buddha bracelet's role in fashion? You may want to use this bracelet not as a meditation tool but as a fashion statement. These bracelets may fit several fashion styles. This is because they can consist of so many materials.

Often, celebrities wear large wooden Buddha bracelets to complement a bohemian outfit. Smaller, more subdued versions are also becoming popular.

It is always a good idea to be mindful about wearing your Buddha bracelet as a fashion statement. Some Buddhists want to reserve these bracelets for religious use.

Wearing a Buddha bracelet can also show commitment to meditation or yoga practice. It makes it easier to connect with people who have the same interests.

Celebrities Wearing the Buddha bracelet

The Buddha bracelet's meaning and history seem intriguing to celebrities in recent decades. Some celebrities may find peace using their beads for meditation. Others may enjoy the aesthetic value of the Buddha bracelet. These and other religion-inspired bracelets are increasing in popularity. This is especially true with the rich and famous.

Lenny Kravitz

Lenny Kravitz is vocal about his experiences with spirituality and religion. He explores elements of spirituality, but he self-identifies as a Christian. He wears a range of jewelry, including a Buddha bracelet.

Elle Macpherson

Elle Macpherson is an Australian model and actress known for her trendsetting style. A component of her style has been bohemian fashion. Bracelets are a common feature of that particular style. While the celebrity explores spirituality, she does not subscribe to any specific religion.

Deepak Chopra

Chopra is an author and New Age celebrity. He explores different elements of spirituality and alternative medicine. He believes in Buddha bracelet as a way to aid meditation. While he uses these bracelets, he does not wear them with much prominence.

Vanessa Hudgens

This actress and singer loves wearing Buddha bracelet in her daily life. It is a vital part of her bohemian look. It is unknown if she uses the bracelets for meditation besides fashion. Though she may have dabbled in Buddhism, she identifies as a non-denominational Christian.

Summary & Conclusion

So, what is a Buddha bracelet? These historic bracelets can focus on meditation. They also show others that you practice meditation, and they look stylish. Nowadays, you may not be able to wear a traditional large Buddha bracelet, but you can appreciate it.

Now, there are compact, non-obtrusive options. These are great for when you need help focusing on your meditation practice. Pieces such as the Lucky Red Bracelet aim to bring luck to the wearer while providing a way to focus on meditation.