After one year of breaking-in, the most genuine changes in the Old Tree King 108. Breaking in the Old Tree King 108 for a year brings real, tangible changes—here's what I'd tell anyone thinking of breaking in a 108. After one year of breaking-in, the most genuine changes in the Old Tree King 108 are all earned through the process.

Changes in color

Changes in color: after a year, the mala's color shifts from pale yellow to deep red, and the patina begins to form; the oiliness of the beads emerges, giving the surface a sheen; the color is far deeper than a new mala, and it looks like it has years behind it.

Changes in feel

Changes in feel: after a year, the surface goes from rough to smooth; the grain is polished round and feels silky to the touch; all 108 beads have developed a patina.

Changes in condition

Changes in condition: after a year, the alkaline bloom is gone and the color differences have evened out; the mala's base tone is clean and the color is uniform; after a year of breaking-in, the changes are visible and tangible. After one year of breaking-in, the most genuine changes in the Old Tree King 108: deep red color with the patina beginning to form, a smooth feel, alkaline bloom and color differences all resolved, and the mala looks completely transformed.

A year of change—the mala speaks for itself. Color, feel, and condition are all shifting. This is the reward of sticking with breaking-in, and only those who do it truly know.

Looking back after a year of breaking in the mala, the most genuine changes are right there in your hands. The 108 goes from new to seasoned, and that process itself is the best reward.

In one year, the 108 has gone from a new mala to a seasoned one. Every change along the way is the most solid reward for anyone who breaks in a mala.