Buddhist prayer beads are important instruments in Buddhist practice. They are mainly used for counting when chanting Buddha, chanting mantras, and reciting scriptures. They also have the auxiliary function of concentrating the body and mind and eliminating delusions. Its core meaning is to help practitioners focus on practice and eliminate troubles through physical touch and numerical symbolism. The following analyzes its
connotation from multiple dimensions:

The prayer beads are connected in series with a specific number of beads to record the number of times the Buddha is chanted and the mantra is chanted. For example, the most common 108 prayer beads correspond to the practice goal of "eliminating 108 kinds of troubles" in Buddhism.

Practice instruments
By twisting the beads, practitioners can maintain mindfulness, reduce distractions, and achieve the effect of "binding the mind". The "Mukkor Sutra" records that the Buddha used prayer beads to assist King Boliuri in his practice.

Basic composition
Main bead (Buddha head): represents the Buddha, usually larger, symbolizing the ultimate goal of practice.
Sub-beads: The main beads used for counting, the number varies depending on the purpose (such as 108 beads, 54 beads, etc.). Separator beads (three links): separate different counting sections, symbolizing the division of practice stages.
Disciple beads, back clouds, etc.: auxiliary decorations, enhancing the solemnity of the instrument.

Material symbolism
Bodhi seeds: the most common material, symbolizing enlightenment and the achievement of Buddhahood.
Metal, jade: represent wealth and status, and have the function of warding off evil spirits.
Porcelain seeds: the material first advocated by the Buddha, and the merits are considered the greatest.

Buddhist prayer beads are commonly seen in 108 beads. The numerical connotation is derived from Buddhist doctrines and practice. It can be analyzed from the following dimensions:

Eliminate 108 troubles
Classification of troubles
108 Buddhist beads correspond to the concept of "108 troubles" in Buddhism. The specific classification includes:
Six roots and three feelings: eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind, each with three feelings of suffering, happiness, and renunciation, a total of 18 kinds.

Three worlds: past, present, and future, each with 18 kinds of troubles, a total of 108 kinds.
Practitioners symbolically eliminate these troubles by twisting the prayer beads to achieve physical and mental tranquility.

Awakening to 108 Samadhis
"108 Samadhis" refers to 108 kinds of immeasurable meditation states. Practitioners can achieve these Samadhis through chanting Buddha's name, chanting mantras, etc., and finally achieve Buddhahood 1513.

Bodhisattva practice stages
The 108 beads also symbolize the 54 stages of Bodhisattva practice (Ten Faiths, Ten Dwellings, Ten Practices, Ten Dedications, Ten Grounds, and Four Good Roots). Each stage requires two practices, so the total number is 108.

Perfection of the Ten Dharma Realms
The 1080 beads (ten times 108) represent the 108 kinds of troubles in the Ten Dharma Realms (Buddha, Bodhisattva, Arhat, Pratyekabuddha, Heaven, Human, Asura, Hell, Hungry Ghost, Animal), and 108 beads condense this concept and embody the perfection of the Dharma Realm.

The efficacy and function of prayer beads can be analyzed from multiple dimensions such as religion, psychology, health preservation and culture. The following is a comprehensive summary:

Religious practice
Counting aid
Prayers were originally counting tools for Buddhists to chant sutras and mantras. Each bead represents a prayer or mantra, helping practitioners to concentrate

Eliminate troubles and karma
In Buddhism, 108 prayer beads symbolize 108 kinds of troubles. Through counting practice, distracting thoughts can be gradually eliminated to achieve a pure state of mind.
Other numbers such as 54 beads represent the realm of self-cultivation, and 27 beads symbolize the saints of the voice-hearers.

Symbolize merit and wisdom
Different materials symbolize different meanings of practice. For example, bodhi seeds represent enlightenment, and gemstone materials such as coral and crystal are believed to enhance the compassion or concentration of practitioners.

Psychological adjustment and meditation effect
Enhance concentration
By repeatedly moving the prayer beads, it helps to calm distracting thoughts and enhance concentration during meditation. It is called "horse rope" to curb delusions.
Relieve anxiety and stress
Regular movements and touch can promote psychological relaxation and reduce anxiety in modern life.
Self-reflection and mindfulness
The circular structure of the rosary symbolizes the cycle of life, reminding practitioners to focus on the present and cultivate mindful thinking.

Energy effect of materials
Wooden rosary beads (such as agarwood and sandalwood) are believed to have the effect of calming the mind and relieving headaches;
Gemstone materials such as crystal and agate may affect the body's qi and blood through energy fields.
Promote blood circulation
The movement of the rosary with the hand can indirectly stimulate the acupuncture points and improve the microcirculation of the hand.

Regarding the wearing method of the rosary, it is necessary to combine Buddhist rituals and daily precautions:

Wearing position and direction
Regular wearing: It is generally recommended to wear it on the left wrist, because the left hand symbolizes compassion, which is more in line with the Buddhist practice concept. If you need to count or remind yourself to concentrate on a daily basis, you can hold it above the waist.

Hanging wear: If you hang it around your neck, you need to make sure that the "pagoda" (mother bead) of the rosary is facing up to show respect for the Dharma.

Combining the method of holding beads with practice
Counting holding method:
Gently move the beads with your thumb and index finger, and move one bead for each recitation, counting in a clockwise cycle,
Use a counter to assist long-term recitation (such as moving the counting bead once every 108 times).
Practice integration:
You can combine breathing method (reciting on inhalation, moving the beads on exhalation) or visualization method (visualizing compassion and equality in segments) to improve concentration, Keep your posture upright when holding the beads, and avoid lying down or shaking at will.

Materials and first use
Material selection: Common materials include bodhi seeds, sandalwood, crystal, etc. The exoteric school mostly uses bodhi seeds (such as phoenix eye bodhi), while the esoteric school may use vajra seeds.
Purification and blessing: It is recommended to sprinkle the new rosary with water chanting the Great Compassion Mantra or ask a monk to bless it to remove the impurities attached.

Meditation with rosary beads is a way of combining traditional practice with modern mindfulness practice. Its core is to help focus, regulate breathing, and deepen inner awareness through the touch and counting function of rosary beads.

Steps of holding beads for meditation
Preparation for meditation
Environment: Choose a quiet and ventilated space, which can be accompanied by light music or natural sounds.
Posture: Sit cross-legged or upright on a chair, with a straight spine, and naturally overlap or hold beads with both hands.

Synchronize breathing and touch
Holding method: Hold the beads with the right hand, lightly clamp the main bead with the thumb and index finger, and relax the other fingers naturally.
Sliding rhythm: When inhaling, the thumb pushes the beads to slide to the right, and when exhaling, slide to the left, with deep and long breathing.

Concentration and visualization
Single focus: Focus on breathing, the touch of beads or the sound of heartbeat, and gently return if distracted.
Theme meditation: Each bead corresponds to an object of visualization (such as compassion, gratitude), or recite a short mantra such as
I have the support of the universe.
I am protected by God.
I am protected by the Mala bead necklace.
I am strong.
I am guided by God.
I am on the right path.

Cycle and End
After completing a circle, fold the rosary into three parts and place them in your palms, symbolizing the integration of body and mind.

Regarding the maintenance of the rosary, it is necessary to comprehensively handle it according to the material (wood, bodhi, amber, etc.) and the usage scenario. The following are the core maintenance methods and precautions, which are organized in combination with the characteristics of different materials:

Daily wear and use specifications
Avoid polluting the environment
Do not wear it in a humid or fume-heavy environment such as the bathroom or kitchen. If you need to go to the bathroom, you should take it off and store it in your shirt pocket or hang it close to your body.
Avoid contact with odor irritants such as tobacco, alcohol, onions and garlic, and do not let ash or stains on the rosary.

Keep clean and hygienic
Wash your hands before wearing to avoid hand oil and dust from contaminating the surface of the rosary.
Remove it in advance when exercising, sweating or contacting chemicals (such as perfume, toiletries).
Standardized holding posture
Keep the rosary above the waist when counting, avoid swinging or swinging it at will, and prevent bumps.

Cleaning and care methods
Wooden/Bodhi rosary
Initial maintenance: New beads can be polished with cotton cloth, and the surface can be oxidized to form a protective layer before playing with it.
Daily playing: Play with dry hands, and focus on wiping the hole. For sweaty hands, it is recommended to use a cloth to avoid sweat erosion.
Cleaning patina: If the patina affects the fragrance, you can use a hot towel to warm it up and then gently wipe the surface.
Stone/amber beads
Avoid friction with hard objects. Store them separately in a soft cloth bag to prevent scratches.
Amber should be kept away from high temperature and ultraviolet rays to avoid cracking or fading.
General cleaning tips
Minor stains can be wiped with cotton cloth dipped in neutral soapy water. Chemical detergents are prohibited.
When not worn for a long time, wrap it with cotton cloth and store it in a sealed container (such as a glass jar) to keep the environment dry.

Storage environment requirements
Moisture-proof and dry-proof

Wooden beads should be kept away from extreme humidity environments. Desiccant can be placed during the rainy season; in dry areas, moisturize them regularly with a damp cloth.
Avoid direct sunlight or long-term exposure to high temperature to prevent the material from cracking.
Independent storage
Store beads of different materials separately to avoid mutual friction and damage.
A Buddhist temple or clean place is preferred. Incense can be used regularly to purify the surrounding environment.

Special material precautions
Pearl/shell beads: Do not wash directly with water, only wipe with a soft cloth; avoid corrosion from sweat and cosmetics15.
Turquoise/Xiuyan jade beads: Prevent bumps and sweat penetration, and regularly use a cotton swab togently wipe the surface dust.

Pregnant women should pay special attention to
Prohibited materials
Cinnabar bracelets: Contain mercury sulfide, which may enter the body through the skin or respiratory tract, affecting fetal development, and even causing miscarriage or deformity.
Traditional Chinese medicine bracelets for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis (such as safflower and peach kernel materials): may stimulate uterine contraction and increase the risk of miscarriage.

Wearing suggestions
Prefer non-toxic materials (such as Hetian jade), but pay attention to the tightness to avoid compressing the wrist.
Pregnant skin is sensitive, so be alert to allergic reactions; stop using immediately if itching, redness, or swelling occurs.
Psychological impact
Excessive concern about the safety of bracelets may cause anxiety. It is recommended to reduce the wearing of jewelry during pregnancy, and focus on simple and comfortable.

Children's precautions
Material safety
Avoid bracelets containing toxic ingredients (such as cinnabar, realgar) or small particles that are easy to fall off to prevent accidental swallowing or allergies.
Prefer natural non-irritating materials (such as sandalwood), and ensure that the surface is smooth and has no sharp edges.
Wearing management
Infants and young children are not recommended to wear it. School-age children need to use it under adult supervision to avoid chewing or prolonged contact with the skin.
Check the firmness of the bracelet regularly to prevent the risk of accidental swallowing due to broken strings.
Health monitoring
Children's internal organs are delicate. If they experience abnormal reactions such as rashes and irritability after wearing them, they should seek medical attention immediately.

The efficacy of Mala Beads bracelets is mostly auxiliary conditioning, and cannot replace drug treatment. Some materials may cause allergies, so you need to choose according to your physical condition. For example, cinnabar needs to avoid high temperature or chemical contact.