I am learning about yaks for the WITCH CHALLENGE - Magick with Animals. I didn’t want to clog up that thread with yak postings. I will continue adding what I learn here.
facts from a-z animals
there are 2 main species of yak. The wild Yak- Bos Mutus and the domesticated yak - Bos Grunniens. I am focusing mostly on the Bos Grunniens for now.
Having 3x more red blood cells than normal cows enables them to live at such high altitudes
Most Tibetan Yaks are black
They provide meat that is high protein low in fat.
Provide milk that is high in fats proteins and vitamins. the Milk is also used for butter cheese and yogurt. In some cultures it is also used medicinally.
Dried dung is a main fuel source for heating homes and cooking.
Fur hair and hides are used to make leather, clothing, tents, ropes & much more.
Excellent pack animals. Yaks can carry loads between 150-200kg though rugged terrain where other types of transportation cannot go.
Long story but basically I saw some sort of bovine like skull shape in some soot on the side of a candle vase. I knew it wasn’t just a cow. Yak was the answer I got. That’s what sparked my interest.
How very interesting. The photo of the yak running with its hair flying all over the place looks very happy. They don’t look like they’d be very comfortable to ride though, but what amazing pack animals. I can see how they are do important to the people of Tibet (a place I always wanted to visit but never made it there)
A few spiritual tidbits- In some cultures and traditions Yaks are sacred animals who are associated with strength, spiritual purity, overcoming obstacles with patience and determination, protection, resilience and harmony with the land. In Tibetan Buddhism they are believed to offer spiritual strength to those who rely on them and seen as guardians of the people as well as the land.
I am just scratching the surface. There is much to explore and learn. If any of my info is incorrect please let me know so I can learn. If anyone has experience with yaks or Tibetan Buddhism and feels comfortable sharing I would appreciate it Photos from guidetibet .com & Tibettravel .org
I stayed for a time at a Zen Buddhist Temple but I’m afraid I’m not very familiar about Tibetan Buddhism. I’m enjoying learning about yaks through your posts!
So many wonderful associations. They’re a powerful animal indeed! Thank you for sharing your research, @c11
Just wanted to share a little experience I had. Last night during my (almost) nightly ritual-after everyone has been in bed for a bit I sit in the dark with just a candle , a cup of tea , and maybe a crystal. I do some breathing with closed eyes and end my day with gratitude. I had the window open letting in the wonderful breeze so the candle was dancing. I was giving thanks for mighty Yak coming into my life and learning about it, and its guidance. While saying my thanks the candle got really still and it glowed so brightly. As if some one had turned on the light. My eyes immediately popped open. I thought maybe one of the boys got up needing something. That sort of jolted me out of the moment so I decided to end there. As for the candle and what it means. I think probably that I do have some sort of connection to majestic Yak and it was hearing me and is walking with me. at least for now Any other interpretations are welcome also
Blessed be everyone and thanks for taking the time to read
WITCH CHALLENGE - Magick with Animals. I didn’t want to clog up that thread with yak postings. I will continue adding what I learn here.
, a cup of tea 
, and maybe a crystal.
I do some breathing with closed eyes and end my day with gratitude. I had the window open letting in the wonderful breeze 
so the candle was dancing. I was giving thanks for mighty Yak coming into my life and learning about it, and its guidance. While saying my thanks the candle got really still and it glowed so brightly. As if some one had turned on the light. 
My eyes immediately popped open. I thought maybe one of the boys got up needing something. That sort of jolted me out of the moment so I decided to end there. As for the candle and what it means. I think probably that I do have some sort of connection to majestic Yak and it was hearing me and is walking with me. at least for now 
Any other interpretations are welcome also 