REVIEW: MODERN GUIDE TO MEDITATION BEADS

 

 

Modern Guide to Meditation Beads

Shannon Yrizarry, Llewellyn, 2020

 

Since prayer beads are important in my religious practice, I decided to read Shannon Yrizarry’s “Modern Guide to Meditation Beads.” Yrizarry writes that meditation beads “are great for both the deep spiritual seeker and some needing a tool to help them with more simple day-to-day things.” (She refers to “prayer beads” as “meditation beads” since they are a “cross-cultural tool that can be used for secular uses.”) In her guide, Yrizarry presents topics such as the use of meditation beads, their history, and how to compose mantras.

 

In her small book, Yrizaary wants to be complete as possible, since she is introducing people to their use. Yrizarry writes that “using meditation beads is a life-transforming tool.” Use the beads “if you are feeling like you want to make a change in your life but don’t have clarity on what needs to change.” She explains that this works by subconsciously reprogramming the mind to what is helpful. Moreover, fingering the beads can provide a sense of calm, as well as, remind a person of their stated intentions.

 

Because of my brain injury, I often commission beads for my personal use. I found the discussions of how meditation beads are constructed and what to include to be helpful. The book has suggestions on what would be appropriate for what purpose. For example, a person could can match the beads to the Signs of the Zodiac, and then set-up intentions based on their attributes. For me, Yrizarry’s suggestions sparks my creative thinking for designing new sets.

 

As a part of using meditation beads, Yrizarry explains how to construct mantras and intentions. Mantras work to direct the person’s energy through applied attention. Moreover, the time spent setting up the intention directs the mind as well to the desired thoughts.

 

To have an effective mantra, Yrizarry suggests the following steps. First, determine what are the goals. Then clarify which one is the most important. Refine that intention to be clear as possible. An excellent intention should state what is wanted and reenforce why. An example would be “I am calm so I can feel peaceful.” When using the beads, remember to include “thank you” when repeating the intentions.

 

As for me, I use the “meditation beads” for my prayers. For example, I have a set is for Nanna-Suen, the Babylonian God of the Moon. This set consists of 108 beads of aquamarine and dark green aventurine, beads in a pattern for the cycles of the moon. As I say my prayers. I am focused on Nanna-Suen. Since I pray before retiring to bed, this invites the God into my dreams.