8 tips for creating affirmations with mala beads to boost positivity

Tiffany Mcgee

December 27, 2024
3 min read

Have you ever felt like your mind gets stuck in a loop of negative thoughts?

You’re not alone — it’s something we all face at times.

But here’s the exciting part: you can break that cycle and create lasting positivity with something as simple and powerful as affirmations.

Now imagine adding mala beads to the mix.

These beautiful strings of beads turn affirmations into a meditative, grounding ritual. With each bead, you’re not just repeating words—you’re planting seeds of self-love, joy, and resilience.

In this guide, I’ll share my favorite tips for crafting affirmations that truly uplift and inspire.

1) Start with the energy you want to cultivate

Affirmations are most powerful when they’re rooted in intention.

So, ask yourself: what do you need most right now? Confidence? Peace? Joy?

Take a moment to reflect on the energy you’d like to bring into your life. Once you’re clear, create affirmations that align with that energy. For example:

If you’re seeking confidence, try: “I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to.”
If peace is your goal: “I release tension and embrace calm in every moment.”

When you pair this intention with your mala beads, each bead becomes a vessel for the energy you’re calling in.

2) Keep affirmations in the present tense

Let’s be honest: When affirmations feel too far from reality, they can sometimes backfire.

That’s why it’s essential to phrase them in the present tense, as if what you’re affirming is already true.

Instead of saying, “I will be happy,” say, “I am happy and at peace.” Instead of “I will love myself,” say, “I love and accept myself completely.”

For me, using present-tense affirmations with mala beads has been a game-changer.

Each bead reminds me to embody that truth right now — not tomorrow, not someday, but in this very moment.

3) Pair affirmations with breath

Have you ever noticed how shallow breathing can make you feel more anxious or stressed?

Well, pairing affirmations with deep, mindful breaths helps amplify their impact.

Hold a bead between your fingers, inhale deeply, and silently say your affirmation.

As you exhale, imagine releasing any negativity or doubt that contradicts your words.

This simple practice doesn’t just help you focus. It also calms your nervous system, making it easier to absorb the positive energy of your affirmation.

4) Create affirmations that feel personal

Generic affirmations are a good starting point, but the most effective ones are tailored to you.

Think about what you’re going through, what challenges you’re facing, and what words feel like a hug to your soul.

For example, during a stressful period in my life, I created an affirmation that said, “I am stronger than my struggles, and I choose resilience every day.”

Repeating this with my mala beads helped me feel supported and empowered when I needed it most.

Let your affirmations reflect your unique journey. The more personal they feel, the more transformative they’ll be.

5) Use your favorite mantra as inspiration

If you’re struggling to come up with affirmations, why not start with a mantra?

Traditional Sanskrit mantras like “Om Shanti Shanti Shanti” (I am peace) or “So Hum” (I am that) carry centuries of wisdom and spiritual energy.

You can also adapt these mantras to create affirmations that resonate with you. For instance:

“Om Shanti Shanti Shanti” could inspire the affirmation: “I am surrounded by peace and harmony.”
“So Hum” might become: “I am enough, just as I am.”

The key is to find words that speak to your heart and feel aligned with your practice.

6) Don’t rush—let the beads guide you

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to rush through even the most meaningful practices. But when it comes to using mala beads, slowing down makes all the difference.

Take your time with each bead. Let your fingers linger as you repeat your affirmation.

Feel the texture of the bead and allow its presence to anchor you.

For me, this slow, intentional approach feels like giving my affirmations the space to breathe and grow.

It’s not just about saying the words — it’s about feeling them resonate deep within.

7) Repeat your affirmations daily

Here’s a fact: Consistency is key to making affirmations work.

As a matter of fact, studies show that repetitive positive affirmations can help rewire your brain. They make it easier to think and act in ways that align with those beliefs.

That’s why you should make it a habit to use your mala beads every day. Perhaps in the morning to set the tone for your day, or in the evening to unwind and reflect.

Either way, the more you integrate affirmations into your routine, the more natural they’ll feel.

Think of it as planting seeds. Each time you use your mala beads, you’re watering those seeds, helping them grow into a garden of positivity.

8) Trust the process

Let’s be real: Affirmations might not feel magical right away, and that’s okay.

Sometimes, your mind might resist the words you’re saying. Other times, you might wonder if they’re even working.

But here’s the truth: Every time you repeat an affirmation, you’re planting a little spark of positivity in your subconscious. Over time, those sparks add up, lighting the way toward a brighter mindset.

Using mala beads is like having a gentle guide on this journey.

Trust that each bead you touch and every word you say is creating subtle yet profound shifts in your energy.