For over 35 centuries, beads have been used as fashionable jewelry to show social status, and as objects of trades or rituals. Over time, many cultures have incorporated beads into their spiritual practice. For example, in Hinduism and Buddhism, mala beads are used during prayer and meditation to help count the number of times a mantra is recited or the Buddha’s name is chanted. With the rise of yoga in the western world, this secret object – a strand of 108 beads – has also gained familiarity.

Dominique Lim has found a purpose for using mala beads during her yoga practice, but also a passion for creating a handmade yoga jewelry that compliments one’s yoga practice, as well as one’s look, on and off the mat. We asked her a few questions about her business, Knimani Bondi Handmade Jewelry. Here’s what she said:

SYN: What was the inspiration behind Knimani Bondi Handmade Jewelry? 

Lim: Knimani Bondi Handmade Jewelry stemmed from my love of jewelry making and crafting. Ever since I was a little kid, I always enjoyed flexing my creative muscles and materializing ideas with my own hands. Whenever I got into very stressful situations, I found that jewelry making served both as a creative and meditative outlet.

SYN: Would you describe your designs as yoga-inspired jewelry?

Lim: Yes! Most of the jewelry I create are mala beads. In yogic tradition, malas are counter beads used to help bring focus during meditation and mantra repetition. Knimani Bondi malas are made from a variety of semi-precious stones that hold unique properties to support the wearer physically, emotionally and spiritually.

SYN: What is unique about your jewelry?

Lim: Every piece is handmade with love and care by yours truly. The materials I use to create my jewelry are sourced from local businesses here in the Pacific Northwest.

SYN: What are your goals/objectives? 

Lim: I just want to share my love of malas! I wear mine all the time, it helps me stay grounded on and off my mat. Also, the process of making malas allows me to create something beautiful with my hands while being in a peaceful, meditative state. I want others to have the opportunity to go through that same experience whenever I host mala-making workshops.

SYN: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Lim: You can find a link to the Knimani Bondi Etsy store and a schedule of upcoming mala-making workshops at the Knimani Bondi website.

Lim hosts mala-making workshops once a month at different yoga studios around Seattle.

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