Rudraksha refers to the seeds of the Rudraksha tree (Elaeocarpus ganitrus), which are considered sacred in the Hindu religion. Rudraksha beads are used for meditation, spiritual practices, and remedies.
Authenticity and benefits
It is important to obtain rudraksha beads from an authentic source to ensure their quality and benefits. Both the web pages mention that they deal in the highest grades of rudraksha and procure directly from farmers.
The benefits of rudraksha mentioned are:
Maintaining physical and mental balance
Supporting spiritual growth
Curing physical, mental and psychosomatic illnesses
The benefits of specific types of rudraksha are listed:
Panchamukhi (5 faced) – inner freedom and purity
Dwimukhi (2 faced) – marital relationships
Shanmukhi (6 faced) – proper development for children
Gauri Shankar – prosperity and balancing energy channels
Conditioning and maintenance
Conditioning rudraksha beads in ghee and milk every 6 months helps prolong their lifespan by preventing brittleness. Conditioning does not “re-energize” them – rudraksha have a natural quality by nature.
Rudraksha malas should be stored in silk cloth or copper vessels. When worn, silk thread is best used.
Cracked beads on a rudraksha mala should be removed as their energy will be altered. The mala can be restrung, keeping the total bead count of 84 plus the bindu for people over 14 years old.
The rudraksha mala beads should always touch each other to experience full benefits, due to the energy movement within the mala.
What types of rudraksha are recommended for meditation?
Rudraksha Beads for Meditation
There are certain rudraksha beads that are especially beneficial for meditation practice.
The panchmukhi or 5 faced rudraksha is considered ideal for most meditators. The panchmukhi symbolizes Rudra, the fierce form of Lord Shiva, and is said to enhance awareness, intellect and focus. Some benefits of the panchmukhi rudraksha for meditation are:
It helps connect with the grace of Shiva more easily during chanting of mantras.
It enhances mental focus and concentration which are important for successful meditation.
It calms the mind and nerves, creating a peaceful state conducive for meditation.
The Gauri Shankar rudraksha, which represents the divine couple of Shiva and Parvati, is also used by meditators to balance their energies. The Gauri Shankar rudraksha is said to open the Hrit Padma chakra and align the inner soul to universal love.
The ek mukhi or single faced rudraksha, ruled by Lord Shiva himself, is also beneficial for attaining super consciousness during meditation. It elevates the awareness towards absolute consciousness and helps achieve a higher state of meditation.
In summary, the panchmukhi, Gauri Shankar and ek mukhi rudraksha beads are considered most effective for meditation practice due to their ability to enhance focus, balance energies, and elevate consciousness. Wearing a mala consisting of a combination of these rudraksha can amplify their benefits for deep meditation.
The condition and maintenance of the rudraksha also plays an important role. Ensuring the beads are from an authentic source, stringing them properly and conditioning them periodically can maximize their effectiveness during meditation.
What are the benefits of the Gauri Shankar rudraksha for meditation?
Benefits of Gauri Shankar Rudraksha for Meditation
The Gauri Shankar Rudraksha, representing the union of Shiva and Shakti, is highly beneficial for meditation practice. Some key benefits for meditation are:
It opens the Hrit Padma chakra, located at the spiritual heart. This chakra is awakened during meditation and connects one with universal love.
It helps in balancing the Ida and Pingala nadi, the energy channels in the subtle body. When these are balanced, the mind becomes still for meditation.
The union of Shiva and Shakti symbolized by the Gauri Shankar Rudraksha awakens the kundalini energy. This helps one progress in meditation and spiritual practices.
It enhances focus and concentration, two important factors for successful meditation. The Gauri Shankar Rudraksha calms the mind and nerves to improve focus.
The Gauri Shankar Rudraksha uplifts one spiritually and evokes a state of universal love. This helps one achieve higher states of consciousness during meditation.
When worn during meditation, the Gauri Shankar Rudraksha acts as a shield against negative energies. This allows one to meditate undisturbed.
The Gauri Shankar Rudraksha activates the Ajna chakra, located between the eyebrows. This helps one achieve higher meditative states and experience spiritual visions.
How often should rudraksha beads be conditioned?
Rudraksha Beads Conditioning Frequency
Rudraksha beads need to be conditioned periodically to retain their vibrancy and effectiveness. Here are the recommended frequencies for conditioning rudraksha:
New Rudraksha
When you first receive new rudraksha beads, they need to be conditioned before wearing:
Immerse the beads in clarified butter or ghee for 24 hours.
Then soak them in full-fat milk for the next 24 hours.
Rinse the beads with water and wipe with a clean cloth.
Regular Conditioning
After conditioning new rudraksha, you will need to condition them every six months:
Immerse the beads in ghee/clarified butter for 3 days.
Smear the beads with vibhuti (holy ash) after removing from ghee.
This helps retain the vibrancy of the rudraksha.
What does soaking the rudraksha beads in ghee accomplish?
Soaking Rudraksha Beads in Ghee Accomplishes
Soaking rudraksha beads in clarified butter or ghee accomplishes the process of energizing and purifying the beads before wearing them. This helps awaken the full properties and benefits of the rudraksha.
When you first receive new rudraksha beads, they need to be conditioned before wearing by soaking in ghee:
Soaking the rudraksha in ghee for 24 hours:
Purifies the bead by removing any impurities that may have accumulated.
Charges the bead with the life-giving properties of ghee which is considered sacred in Hinduism.
Awakens the full spiritual and medicinal benefits of the rudraksha.
After soaking in ghee for 24 hours, the rudraksha beads are then soaked in cow’s milk for another 24 hours:
Soaking in milk for 24 hours:
Further cleanses and conditions the beads.
Milk is considered a sacred and pure substance in Hinduism.
After soaking in milk, the beads are then rinsed in clean water and wiped dry with a clean cloth before wearing.
In summary, soaking new rudraksha beads first in ghee for 24 hours and then in cow’s milk accomplishes the following:
Purifies and energizes the beads
Awakens the full benefits and properties of the rudraksha
Charges the beads with the life-giving qualities of ghee and milk
How does wearing rudraksha affect a person’s energy?
How wearing Rudraksha affects a person’s energy
Wearing Rudraksha beads is believed to have several benefits for a person’s energy and aura. Some of the ways Rudraksha is thought to affect a person’s energy are:
Shield against negative energies: Rudraksha is considered a shield against negative energies that can harm a person. When worn, the Rudraksha beads are said to create a protective cocoon around the wearer that repels negative energies and psychic attacks.
Balances energy channels: Different types of Rudraksha are believed to balance the Ida and Pingala nadis (energy channels) in the subtle body. This balancing of energies is said to promote harmony and inner peace.
Activates chakras: Rudraksha beads are associated with the seven chakras in the body. Each bead is said to represent a particular chakra and can help to activate and balance that chakra. This activation of chakras is thought to uplift a person spiritually.
Enhances aura: Wearing Rudraksha is believed to purify and strengthen a person’s aura. A balanced and strong aura is said to promote positive energy and attract good things in life.
Improves concentration: Rudraksha beads, especially the Panchamukhi, are thought to improve a person’s concentration, focus and memory by calming the mind. This helps in daily activities as well as meditation and spiritual practices.
Promotes positivity: Rudraksha is considered a source of positive energy when worn. It is believed to infuse the wearer with feelings of peace, calmness and optimism.
How does the panchmukhi rudraksha enhance focus during meditation?
How Panchmukhi Rudraksha Enhances Focus During Meditation
Panchmukhi or five-faced rudraksha beads are considered very auspicious and beneficial for meditation. They can help enhance focus, concentration and clarity of mind during meditation practice in several ways:
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Panchmukhi rudraksha is associated with:
- Lord Kalagni Rudra, a form of Lord Shiva
- The element of ether or space
- The planet Saturn
The panchmukhi rudraksha is associated with Lord Kalagni Rudra, a form of Lord Shiva who is the deity of meditation. Wearing or using this bead during meditation can help invoke his blessings to calm the mind and enhance focus.
The five faces of the panchmukhi rudraksha represent the five elements – ether, air, fire, water and earth.
Wearing this bead can help balance the five elements within you, creating a harmonious environment for the mind to settle in during meditation.
When strung together to form a mala, the constant touch of the panchmukhi rudraksha beads is believed to energize and charge the subtle body. This subtle energy can aid in achieving deeper meditative states with greater concentration and mental stillness.
The Saturn association of panchmukhi rudraksha also enhances the meditator’s patience, discipline and perseverance – qualities that help sustain focus during a meditation session.
Besides stringing and conditioning, what other factors determine the effectiveness of a rudraksha for meditation?
Factors That Affect the Effectiveness of Rudraksha Beads for Meditation
There are several factors that can affect how effective rudraksha beads are for meditation:
Authenticity: Only natural, authentic rudraksha beads will have the desired effects. Fake or artificially made beads will not be as effective. So it is important to buy rudraksha beads from a trusted source.
Mukhi (Faces): The number of faces on the rudraksha bead determines its properties and benefits. Certain mukhis like the 5-faced Panchamukhi are considered most effective for meditation.
Pran Prathistha (Purification): New rudraksha beads need to be purified and energized through a Pran Prathistha ceremony before wearing. This awakens the full spiritual benefits of the beads.
Wearing Methodology: The way rudraksha beads are strung and worn affects how well they work. They should be worn in a way that allows them to touch the skin for maximum effect.
Daily Puja: Performing daily puja and mantra chanting on the rudraksha beads helps keep them energized and effective. This recharges the beads with positive energy.
Cleaning: Rudraksha beads need to be cleaned regularly with water to remove any impurities that may accumulate. Dirty beads will not work as well.
Wearing Duration: The longer rudraksha beads are worn continuously, the more effective they tend to become over time.
Combination of Beads: Combining rudraksha beads of different mukhis according to Rudraksha Ratna Science Therapy can maximize their meditative benefits.
What chakra does the ek mukhi rudraksha align during meditation practice?
Ek Mukhi Rudraksha and Chakras
Ek mukhi or one faced rudraksha is associated with the muladhara chakra located at the base of the spine. Wearing an ek mukhi rudraksha during meditation can help balance and activate this chakra.
The muladhara chakra is related to:
- The element of earth
- The color red
- The sense of smell
The muladhara chakra is responsible for stability, security and basic survival needs. When imbalanced, it can lead to issues related to fear, greed and lack of grounding.
Wearing an ek mukhi rudraksha during meditation can:
Help ground the practitioner and increase their sense of stability
Balance the earth element within the subtle body
Align the kundalini shakti with the sushumna nadi
Activate the muladhara chakra and release blocked energy
However, an ek mukhi rudraksha is considered a powerful bead and is not recommended for everyone. It is best suited for those on an advanced spiritual path.
Other important factors:
- The bead must be authentic and consecrated
- It should be worn in the correct manner
- Daily puja and mantra chanting can enhance its effects
When conditioning new rudraksha beads, why is it important to soak them in milk after soaking in ghee?
Conditioning New Rudraksha Beads with Milk after Ghee
To properly condition new rudraksha beads and prepare them for wearing, it is important to soak them in ghee (clarified butter) followed by milk. This helps remove any impurities and coat the beads with oils that prevent cracking.
The recommended process is:
1. Soak the rudraksha beads in ghee for 24 hours. This helps cleanse and
condition the beads.
2. After 24 hours, remove the beads from the ghee and soak them in full-fat
cow's milk for another 24 hours.
3. Remove the beads from the milk and rinse them thoroughly with clean water.
4. Wipe the beads dry with a clean cotton cloth. Do not use soap or any
chemical cleansers.
Soaking the beads in milk after ghee has several benefits:
The milk coats the beads with a thin film that helps prevent cracking over time.
The natural oils and fats in the milk further condition and nourish the rudraksha seeds.
The milk removes any remaining ghee or impurities that may be left after soaking in ghee alone.
It is important to use full-fat milk for soaking the rudraksha beads as the higher fat content helps coat and protect the beads better. Skim or low-fat milk is not recommended.
After the initial conditioning with ghee and milk, rudraksha beads should be reconditioned every 6 months by soaking in ghee for 3 days, followed by wiping with vibhuti (holy ash). This helps retain the potency and benefits of the beads.
What is the purpose of applying holy ash after removing the beads from ghee?
Applying Vibhuti After Soaking Rudraksha in Ghee
Applying vibhuti after soaking new rudraksha beads in ghee is an important part of the conditioning process. This helps retain the potency and benefits of the rudraksha beads over time.
The process of conditioning rudraksha involves:
Soaking the rudraksha beads in ghee or clarified butter for 24 hours. This cleanses and nourishes the beads.
After 24 hours, remove the beads from the ghee and soak them in full-fat cow’s milk for another 24 hours.
Remove the beads from the milk and rinse them thoroughly with clean water. Dry with a clean cotton cloth.
Apply vibhuti or sacred ash to the rudraksha beads.
The vibhuti acts as a protective coating for the rudraksha beads. It helps to:
Seal in the ghee and milk that has nourished the beads during the conditioning process.
Absorb any remaining impurities from the soaking process.
Imbibe the rudraksha beads with the potent energy of the vibhuti.
Prevent the rudraksha beads from cracking over time.
Applying vibhuti after soaking the rudraksha in ghee is an essential part of the initial conditioning process. It prepares the beads to retain their benefits when worn around the neck.
This initial conditioning with ghee, milk and vibhuti should be repeated every 6 months to keep the rudraksha beads vibrant and effective.
Besides clarified butter, what other oils can be used for conditioning rudraksha?
Oils Used for Conditioning Rudraksha
The main oils used for conditioning rudraksha beads are ghee and sesame oil.
Ghee is used for the initial conditioning process when a new rudraksha is purchased. The beads are soaked in ghee for 24 hours to cleanse and nourish them. This helps remove any impurities and coat the rudraksha with a protective layer of ghee.
After soaking in ghee, the rudraksha is then soaked in full-fat cow’s milk for another 24 hours. The milk coats the beads with a thin film that helps prevent cracking. Finally, the beads are wiped with vibhuti to absorb any remaining moisture and impurities.
This initial conditioning with ghee and milk should be done every 6 months to maintain the rudraksha. The leftover ghee can be saved and reused for the next conditioning.
Sesame oil is used for periodic conditioning, usually once or twice a year after the initial ghee and milk process. The rudraksha is soaked in sesame oil for 3 to 7 days.
Soaking in sesame oil has benefits like:
Nourishing and protecting the beads from external elements
Preventing the beads from drying out and cracking
Extending the lifespan of the rudraksha
The key points about oils used for rudraksha conditioning are:
Ghee is used for the initial conditioning when new beads are purchased, as well as every 6 months later
Milk is used along with ghee during the initial conditioning
Sesame oil is used once or twice a year after the initial ghee and milk process
Both ghee and sesame oil coat and protect the beads from damage
conclusion
In conclusion, rudraksha beads play a significant role in enhancing meditation and spiritual practices. Authenticity, conditioning, and proper maintenance are crucial for maximizing their benefits. Panchmukhi, Gauri Shankar, and ek mukhi rudraksha are especially effective for meditation. Regular conditioning with ghee, milk, and vibhuti helps maintain their effectiveness and prolong their lifespan.
