Local wisdom holds a highly respected place in communities of all sizes throughout Thailand, employing knowledge and traditions that are faithfully passed on from generation to generation. It’s applied in various areas of everyday life, including health and wellness. Particular locations or attractions are often renowned for a certain expertise or wisdom; such as, the following in each of the kingdom’s five regions.
Central Region – Abhaibhubejhr Day Spa and Museum in Prachin Buri
Prachin Buri province is known for its herbal plants and traditional Thai medicines, and is often referred to as Thailand’s herbal city. A lot about medical local wisdom can be learned here and an interesting place to start is the Abhaibhubejhr Thai Herbal Medicine Museum which – much as its name suggests – is dedicated to preserving and showcasing traditional Thai medicine knowledge.
The Northeast – Buddhist Meditation Retreats
Those interested in doing a Buddhist meditation retreat may choose to do so at a temple in Northeast Thailand. Many of the monasteries in the Northeast fall under the Thai forest tradition, in which monastics aim to live as closely to how the Buddha lived as possible. Hallmarks of this tradition include living in the forest, using the human body as a meditation subject and maintaining mindfulness in all activities.
The South – Ranong Hot Springs
Ranong’s hot springs have long been reputed for their medicinal properties and this, together with their rustic outdoor appeal, see them continue to draw both foreign and Thai visitors. The springs, of which the closest are a convenient 2 kilometres from Ranong town in Raksawarin Park, are probably the most popular attraction in the surrounding area.