1) Meru refers to the brain or vertebral column, which supports consciousness and life. 2) Meru-mani refers to a large bead used in rosaries for counting repetitions of a mantra during namasmaran (remembrance of God's name). 3) It is recommended not to pass over the meru-mani bead when counting repetitions, as this replicates the flow of impulses between the left and right hemispheres of the brain during meditation and helps one reach the controlling center of the inner universe.