From the skilled hands of Nepalese women comes a handmade talisman: a sandalwood mala. Each string of 108 beads, anchored by a "guru" bead, represents not just a spiritual tool but a crucial lifeline, supporting a small industry and providing income for local families. For the practitioner, this mala becomes a rhythmic partner. With each repetition of a mantra, a bead is moved, its smooth surface and calming scent helping to anchor a wandering mind. The sandalwood itself is celebrated for its metaphysical power—believed to purify negative energy, offer protection, and create a sacred space for meditation and inner peace.