This listing is for a carved yak bone 108 bead mala with a large conch shell guru bead and faux amber spacers. Yaks have played a significant role in Tibetan culture and lifestyle for centuries by being used for transportation of goods, yak hair is used for fabrics and rope, and yak milk is used for cheese and butter. Yak bone represents impermanence and is said to maintain healthy blood circulation. Conch shell is one of the 8 auspicious symbols in Tibetan Buddhism and represents the voice of Buddha. The yak bone beads measure approximately 7mmx10mm, however may vary slightly in size due to their handmade nature. The conch shell guru bead measures approximately 17mm. Prayer beads are usually used for meditation, counting mantras, and prostration. Malas are usually worn on the left or right wrist while not in use (the wrist it is worn on is typically determined by the mantra or practice). Suggested mantras for this mala: "Om Muni Muni Maha Muni Ye Soha" to Lord Buddha Shakyamuni "Om Tare Turi Tutari Turi Soha" to White Tara "Tayatha Om Pekatse Pekatse Maha Pekatse Raza Samu Gati Soha" to Medicine Buddha **due to the natural methods used to dye this product, these beads are not waterproof
