Wearing Rudraksha: Dos and Don’ts For Proper Usage
Rudraksha beads have been revered in Hinduism and other spiritual traditions for centuries, known for their profound spiritual significance and supposed healing properties. These sacred beads are believed to be the tears of Lord Shiva, symbolizing his compassion and power. As a result, Wearing Rudraksha is not just a mere accessory but a powerful tool for spiritual growth, health, and well-being.
However, to fully benefit from Rudraksha, it is essential to understand the dos and don’ts of wearing it. This article delves into these practices, offering a comprehensive guide to the proper usage of Rudraksha.
What is Rudraksha?
Before diving into the guidelines for wearing Rudraksha, it’s important to understand what it is. Rudraksha beads come from the seeds of the Rudraksha tree (Elaeocarpus ganitrus), primarily found in the Himalayan region, parts of Southeast Asia, and the Gangetic plains in India. These beads are typically round and have distinct lines running from one end to the other, called mukhis, which represent different faces of the bead.
Rudraksha beads range from one to twenty-one mukhis, each with its unique significance and benefits. For instance, a one-mukhi Rudraksha is believed to bring spiritual enlightenment, while a five-mukhi Rudraksha, the most common type, is associated with peace, health, and prosperity.
The Significance of Wearing Rudraksha
Wearing Rudraksha beads is more than just a spiritual practice; it is a means to harmonize the mind, body, and spirit. According to ancient texts, Rudraksha beads possess electromagnetic properties that have a positive effect on the human body, particularly in balancing the chakras and purifying the aura. They are also said to help in reducing stress, enhance concentration, and promote overall well-being.
In spiritual terms, Rudraksha is believed to be a powerful tool for meditation and self-realization. It is said to connect the wearer with divine energies, fostering a deeper sense of inner peace and spiritual growth. Given their profound significance, it is crucial to follow specific guidelines to maximize the benefits of wearing Rudraksha.
Dos of Wearing Rudraksha
Purification Before Wearing:
Before wearing a Rudraksha bead, it is essential to purify it. This involves washing the bead in clean water or milk, followed by offering it to Lord Shiva or another deity you revere. Some also recommend chanting specific mantras like the ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ to invoke blessings.
Wear According to Your Zodiac Sign or Purpose:
Different Rudraksha beads are believed to have varying effects based on your astrological sign and the specific outcomes you seek, such as health, wealth, or spiritual growth. Consulting with an astrologer or spiritual guide can help determine the right Rudraksha for you.
Wear on an Auspicious Day:
It is recommended to begin wearing Rudraksha on an auspicious day, preferably on a Monday, which is considered sacred to Lord Shiva. Special occasions like Maha Shivaratri or during the Shravana month are also ideal times.
Wear It Close to the Skin:
Rudraksha beads should be worn close to the skin, preferably around the neck, wrist, or as earrings. This ensures that the electromagnetic properties of the beads can interact with the body’s energy field.
Regular Cleaning and Maintenance:
Rudraksha beads need regular cleaning to maintain their potency. You can do this by wiping them with a clean cloth and occasionally soaking them in water mixed with a few drops of lemon juice or sandalwood oil. This keeps the beads energized and free from negative energies.
Respect and Reverence:
Treat Rudraksha with respect, as it is considered sacred. Store it in a clean and pure place when not in use, preferably in a cloth bag or box. Avoid placing it in unclean or impure areas like bathrooms.
Chanting Mantras While Wearing:
To enhance the spiritual benefits of Rudraksha, chanting mantras like “Om Namah Shivaya” or other Shiva mantras while wearing or meditating with the beads can be highly effective. This practice helps to connect with the divine energies associated with Rudraksha.
Don’ts of Wearing Rudraksha
Avoid Wearing During Negative Activities:
Rudraksha should not be worn during activities considered impure or negative, such as consuming alcohol, eating non-vegetarian food, or engaging in sexual activities. It is believed that these actions can diminish the spiritual potency of the beads.
Do Not Wear While Sleeping or Bathing:
It is generally advised to remove Rudraksha beads while sleeping or bathing, especially during a shower with hot water, as the heat can affect the integrity of the beads. Additionally, wearing Rudraksha while sleeping may lead to entangling or damaging the beads.
Avoid Sharing Rudraksha Beads:
Rudraksha beads should be treated as personal items and should not be shared with others. Each person’s energy is unique, and sharing Rudraksha can transfer energies that may not align with your own, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the beads.
Do Not Use Chemical Cleaners:
Avoid using harsh chemicals or soap to clean Rudraksha beads. Chemicals can strip the natural oils and energy from the beads, rendering them less effective. Stick to natural cleaning methods using water, oil, or milk.
Do Not Wear Broken or Damaged Beads:
If a Rudraksha bead breaks or becomes significantly damaged, it should no longer be worn. Broken beads are believed to lose their spiritual potency. Instead, they should be respectfully immersed in a river or buried in the ground.
Avoid Wearing With Metals:
While wearing Rudraksha, it is advised to avoid using metallic chains or threads, especially iron. The ideal materials for stringing Rudraksha beads are silk or cotton threads, or gold and silver chains, as these materials are considered pure and do not interfere with the bead’s energy.
Do Not Neglect Regular Chanting:
While it is not mandatory to chant mantras constantly, neglecting to do so can diminish the spiritual benefits of wearing Rudraksha. Regular chanting, meditation, or at least maintaining a positive mindset while wearing the beads is recommended.
Additional Considerations
Choosing the Right Rudraksha:
It’s important to ensure that the Rudraksha beads you purchase are genuine and of high quality. The market is flooded with counterfeit beads, so buying from a trusted source is crucial. Genuine Rudraksha beads are typically rough to the touch and can float in water.
Consultation with a Guru or Astrologer:
If you are unsure about which Rudraksha is suitable for you, consider consulting a knowledgeable guru or astrologer. They can guide you in selecting the appropriate bead based on your individual needs, whether they are health-related, spiritual, or material.
Use of Multiple Rudraksha:
It is possible to wear multiple Rudraksha beads, and each can be chosen for its specific benefits. However, one should be cautious about overloading, as the combined energies may be overwhelming. It’s best to start with one or two beads and gradually increase as guided by a spiritual teacher.
Impact on Mental and Physical Health:
Some people report significant improvements in mental clarity, emotional stability, and physical health after wearing Rudraksha. However, it is essential to approach these claims with a balanced perspective, understanding that Rudraksha is not a substitute for medical treatment but a complementary spiritual tool.
Respect for Cultural and Spiritual Significance:
In recent years, Rudraksha has gained popularity as a fashion accessory in the West. While this has helped spread awareness, it’s important to remember and respect the cultural and spiritual significance of Rudraksha in its traditional context. Wearing it mindfully and with reverence is key to honoring its roots.
Conclusion
Wearing Rudraksha is a sacred practice that carries deep spiritual, mental, and physical benefits. However, to fully harness its power, it is essential to follow specific dos and don’ts. From purifying the beads before use to avoiding certain activities while wearing them, these guidelines ensure that you respect the spiritual essence of Rudraksha and maximize its potential benefits.
Whether you wear Rudraksha for spiritual growth, health benefits, or as a reminder of your connection to the divine, approaching it with reverence and mindfulness will enhance your experience. By adhering to these practices, you can align yourself with the powerful energies of Rudraksha, paving the way for a more balanced and harmonious life.
