Komboloi worry beads are a specific type of strung beads designed for helping people deal with stress.
They’re not some new fangled invention though…I have a few sets myself and got my first set over ten years ago. Komboloi worry beads, or at least very similar beads, have been in evidence for many hundreds of years.
Hailing from Greece, Komboloi worry beads are a big part of traditional Greek culture. The word “Komboloi” is derived from the phrase “group of knots” which experts have concluded is a reference to the fact that Greek Orthodox Monks used knotted ropes in their prayer…rather similar to the way in which Catholics use Rosary beads.
But a basic set of Komboloi worry beads has no religious significance and it is accepted that people use them for many different reasons.
Komboloi worry beads have been used as an aid to relaxation and as a support for people who wish to stop smoking or to lose weight.
The comfortingly smooth beads, the pleasant “clink” they make as they gently hit one another as the strand is worked in the fingers, both contribute towards clearing the mind.
Most traditionally Komboloi worry beads are made of Amber, this semi precious stone has long been related to the “grounding” of the spiritual self and also with some health benefits.
Most sets of Komboloi worry beads are presented in strands of up to twenty small beads with a tassel at the end. The tassel is used as the beginning or end of the row and as one works the Komboloi worry beads to the right or to the left, the tassel acts as a stopping and starting point.
As well as Amber, Komboloi worry beads can be found in blue glass versions with depictions of an eye painted on each bead; this is thought to be a protection against the “Curse of the Evil Eye”.
Other less expensive versions come in plastic, wood or resin and everyone will find that they prefer a certain material for their Komboloi worry beads. Because touch is such a personal thing you never know which set will appeal to you. I once had a beautiful Jade set which I could not bear to touch because the cord on which they were strung was so fine and silky, it would catch on my fingertips. I now prefer to use a set which is strung on a Silver chain.
Whatever material you find you prefer when you buy some Komboloi worry beads, once you become close to your set you’ll never look back and they will become a faithful and useful accessory.
