When I was younger and would travel solo, I rarely had the time or resources to meaning-make of all of the cultural phenomena I would experience. This is not to say that I did *a lot* by any means – however the journeys I *did* go on, were all profound. Since I’m invested in learning about the culture of Thailand as it connects with my practice, I have slowly been picking away at questions that were raised back in November when I visited with a group and then wandered a bit solo. At the beginning of our trip, I vividly recall a moment interacting with several bedazzled dresses in the ancient capital city of Ayutthaya. The group was wandering the grounds of ancient ruins when I followed a path back to a few bridges, dwellings, and offering sites. I remember thinking the dresses were for the trees. After some digging, I now know these dresses were to tame the spirit of legendary Mae Nak.
The story is indeed freaky as it reminds us of a powerful message about attachment in love – which can go too far! It. begs us to ask ourselves “how can we practice love without attachment?” Futher, what I’m leaning in finishing a book on Thai Occult Magick, is that Thai folklore and magic practices often lead with a reminder of death. In Thai culture, it would be nearly impossible to dismiss this all-pervasive theme. Hence, humility in a society and a reverence for all beings.
The story of Mae Nak below (and a horrifying still image from a less scary you tube video)
Body Drift Healing Arts 