1) Ancient Indian scriptures talk very high about Rudrakshas. There are many legends associated with Rudraksha. Rudraksh seeds are collected from a tree, which is botanically called Elaeocarpus Ganitrus. It literally means ‘Tears of Shiva’. Rudraksha gets its name from “Rudra” (Shiva) and “Aksha” meaning tears. Wearing Rudraksha mala helps maintaining physical and mental balance. A majority of spiritual seekers adorn it as they believe it helps them in their spiritual pursuits. Experts say it has curative properties that helps an individual to fight physical, mental and psychosomatic illnesses.
2) It can be worn by anyone, irrespective of gender, cultural, ethnic, geographical or religious affiliations. People with illness, lack of focus, depression can get mental peace. Wearing Rudraksha will help children focus in their academic endeavours. Rudrakasha can bring down blood pressure in persons suffering from hypertension, according Ayurvedic experts. But care should be given in selection and treatment of the seeds.
3) Different types of Rudrakshas have different advantages. Acharyas say Dwimukhi (two-faced Rudrakshas) are good for married people. If the couple wears it, it will bring peace and tranquillity in the relationship. Panchamukhi (having five faces) can be worn by anyone above 14 years of age. It helps cultivate inner freedom and purity. This is ideal for students. Shanmukhi (six-faced Rudrakshas) are good for children below 14 years. It helps in physical and mental development. Gowri Shankar: These are beads which look like two beads fused together and can be worn by anyone above 14 years of age. It aids in prosperity and balancing of Ida and Pingala Nadis (energy channels) and activates the seven chakras.
4) Care should be given while selecting the Rudraksha. Ideally Rudrakshas are not supposed to be plucked from tree. They are picked up when they fall down from the tree. Smaller beads are more convenient. It can be threaded using gold or silver. Rudraksha mala can be worn all the time. Some people remove it while sleeping or taking bath. Some people place it in puja room before they go to sleep.
5) Conditioning or treating Rudraksha is an elaborate process. To condition new Rudraksha beads, first it is dipped in clarified butter for a day. After that they are again placed in cow’s milk, preferably desi cow. Its natural colour may get changed but it’s alright. After threading it, some people keep it in Vibhuti for a day. Rudraksha is worn after puja. For students, it is kept for 7 days and Saraswati Pujas are conducted.
Discussion about this post