What Japa and a 108-Bead Mala Are
Japa is the practice of rhythmically repeating a mantra, such as Om Namah Shivay or Hare Krishna, to steady the mind during meditation. Traditionally this is done using a Mala of 108 beads, typically made from Rudraksha, Tulsi, or sandalwood, with practitioners moving one bead per repetition until the full string is complete.