user7039: How are Malas used in the spiritual Buddhist practice? 
Are there instructions and introductions for use? 
I am equally interested in responses from the Buddhist practice of monks and lay people (less New Age theories). I am particularly interested the application of Malas uses of all Buddhist lineages in everyday life.

user8093: A lot of prayer beads have a certain number of beads that correspond to the number of chants one should undertake, usually ending in the number 8 since it is considered a good number. It is to keep your place when you chant. I have a number of them that are 108 count mala beads for the purpose of counting off chants that are 108 repetitions. 

user5838: String of beads can be used in Anussati meditation in sitting or when you are out of meditation to occupy the mind with wholesome thoughts.

7039: <p>How are Malas used in the spiritual Buddhist practice? </p>

<p>Are there instructions and introductions for use? </p>

<p>I am equally interested in responses from the Buddhist practice of monks and lay people (less New Age theories). I am particularly interested the application of Malas uses of all Buddhist lineages in everyday life.</p>
 8093: <p>A lot of prayer beads have a certain number of beads that correspond to the number of chants one should undertake, usually ending in the number 8 since it is considered a good number. It is to keep your place when you chant. I have a number of them that are 108 count mala beads for the purpose of counting off chants that are 108 repetitions. </p>
 5838: <p>String of beads can be used in <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anussati" rel="nofollow">Anussati</a> meditation in sitting or when you are out of meditation to occupy the mind with wholesome thoughts.</p>
