Shiv
What is rudraksha
Rudraksha is one of the symbols and characteristics of Lord Shiva. Followers of Shiva are often seen wearing a chain of rudraksha around their neck or as a bracelet. What is this rudraksha and why do people wear it?
Rudraksha are dried seeds of rudraksha tree. The scientific name of the tree is given by Elaeocarpus Ganitrus. The seeds of the tree are dried and made to create the texture on the rudraksha. Rudraksha is a word derived from Rudra and Aksha which refers to Lord Shiva (Rudra is another name of the god) and eyes (Aksha). Rudraksha is usually worn to repel negative energy.
Why do you wear rudraksha? Benefits of wearing rudraksha
Rudraksha are sought out for their energy, their medicinal property and spiritual nature. The seeds are said to hold a potent energy in them which holds a stepping stone towards one’s inner peace and spiritual upliftment. Rudrakshas create a cocoon of energy around you such that even if you are in a place that is not familiar with you, you have a set of familiarity within yourself. Rudraksha helps to create a space of familiarity around themselves for people who wear them.
The seed of rudraksha helps with protection against negative energy and attracts positive energy. And another reason why rudraksha is worn is because of yoga. In yoga, the concept of chakras is prominently known. Rudrakshas help to balance the energy in each chakra in the body and promote betterment of physical as well as mental health.
Rudraksha is said to have medicinal properties that can help physically and mentally. Wearing rudraksha can help regulate blood pressure, improve blood circulation and enhance vitality. It also helps reduce anxiety and stress. Other than the physical stances, rudraksha deeps one’s insight and awakens intuition on the spiritual level. It helps one to clearly see themselves, giving them a clarity of mind.
People who wear rudraksha are mainly believers of Shiva although it is not limited to them. People who follow the religions of Buddha and Sikh also wear rudraksha. Since, the two known religions revolve around inner peace as well as outer peace, it is a common belief that the rudraksha helps achieve this.
Things to know before wearing rudraksha
With all the spiritual meaning attached to the seed, it is no surprise that rudraksha is considered sacred. However, before wearing the rudraksha, one should know a few things to do while wearing and before wearing them.
- If you are wearing the rudraksha for the first time, or if you have bought a new set of rudraksha, immerse the mala inside ghee for the first 24 hours and in milk for the next 24 hours. This is the activation process that the rudraksha has to go through before anyone wears them. Chant “Om namah Shivaya” while placing it in ghee as well as milk.
- Rudraksha can be worn by anyone regardless of their gender, age, race and religion. However, it is considered a taboo to drink alcohol and smoke any kind of products while wearing it.
- Women are not restricted to remove them during the process of menstruation. This is one of the common questions asked by women when they start wearing rudraksha.
- Rudraksha can make connections with its wearer. Since it forms a shield or cocoon with the wearer, rudraksha can be felt by the wearer. Hence, it is important to know what type of rudraksha you are wearing and whether it is real.
When and how to wear rudraksha?
Rudraksha is not an ornament that has to be worn on certain occasions. It has to be worn at all times by the wearer. Some cultures have a rule of not wearing it to funerals. Otherwise,it is worn at all times by the wearer.
Rudraksha can be added as a pendant and worn as a necklace or as a bracelet and worn around wrists. It can be worn as a mala, with several rudrakshas. Usually cotton thread or silk thread is used. But necklaces or bracelets can also be made from gold or silver. Rudraksha should never be cut to weave it through the necklace.
