MenuThe Greek Komboloi (Kombolói) or worry beads are used to pass the time in the Greek and Cypriot cultures. They are the original fidget spinner! Usually an odd number of beads, made from resin, coral, metal, gemstones, wood, or other material, are strung together. Unlike Rosary beads, Komboloi have no religious or ceremonial meaning.
The earliest known mention of the komboloi dates back to the 14th century, originally being used by monks as a way to count their prayers. In the 19th century, the komboloi became popular among the Greek merchant class and where later used by Greek soldiers during World War II as a way to relieve stress.
Komboloi have been used in Greece for centuries, and they are a popular symbol of the country's culture and heritage. Today, Komboloi are still used to help people relax, focus, and to relieve stress and anxiety. The clicking sound that the beads make as they move can be relaxing and meditative. They are often given as gifts and sold as popular souvenirs for tourists.
How to Use Komboloi
Komboloi are used by swinging them with one hand or by dropping the beads from hand to hand.
Easy
- Hold the "tied end" beads of your Komboloi with your left thumb and index finger.
- Hold the other end of the string / chain with your right thumb and index finger.
- Tilt the string /chain, allowing the beads to fall one way, then the other way.
- That's it! Repeat this motion...
Takes Practice
The single-handed approach takes practice to perfect the rhythm, as you can see in the videos below. Watch the first one to get the general idea and the second one for speed.
Setup:
- Non-Dominant Hand: Hold the "tied end" beads with your left thumb and index finger.
- Dominant Hand: Slide the index finger and middle finger below the top three beads on either side.
- Dominant Hand: Slide your fingers until they are about half way up the string / chain.
- Non-Dominant Hand: Let go.
Swing:
- Dominant Hand: Swing the beads from back to front.
- Dominant Hand: Hold the string / chain with your thumb against your index finger.
- Dominant Hand: Move your index finger out of the way, so that the string / chain falls to the middle finger.
- Dominant Hand: Move your index finger back in place and move your thumb away.
- Repeat the last four instructions.
