Namaste All,

I have decided to take steps on the shaiva path in practice as well, and I'd like to do mantra yoga daily. But I need some clarifcation, please. That's why I began this thread with specific questions:

One or more mantras?
I have studied two shaiva mantras so far, which are 'Om Namah Shivaya' and 'Arunachala Shiva'. I prefer this latter one, I have more feelings for that one as I have been on a pilgrimage to the Arunachala Hill in TN, India.
Which is better - if one person chooses one mantra and uses it only or can one use more, one after the other, depending on mood for example?



One japa mala for one mantra?
Is it true that one japa mala should be used for only one mantra? And if one wants to use another mantra, then one should use another japa mala for that?


Right time of the mantra yoga?
When is it better to do mantra yoga? At dawn? Before sunrise? In the evening before going to sleep? Or when? What can be known about it?


How many rounds a day shall I start with?

Thank you for your helpful answers.