18 | Culture Ways of Life and Wisdom
๏ Knowledge and Practices Concerning Nature and the Universe
Knowledge and practices concerning nature and the universerefers to
the knowledge, methods, skills, beliefs, practices and the expressions developed
from interactions between human and environment, naturally and supernaturally
as follows;
• Food and Nutrition is consumable substance for humans, cooking methods,
consumption methods and nutritious value
• Thai Traditional Medicine and Indigenous Medicine
“Thai Traditional Medicine” is the medical process concerning the health
check-ups, diagnosis, treatments or preventions, promotions and rehabilitations of
humans and/or animal’s health by the application of Thai traditional wisdom.
“Indigenous Medicine” is the way of self-reliance healthcare in traditional
communities through different beliefs, rituals and resources based on each locality
until it has become part of life.
• Astrology and Astronomy
“Astrology” is knowledge of predicting the fortune and future of
individuals and nations based on the position and pattern of the stars at the
time of incidents.
“Astronomy” is knowledge concerning the observation and explanation
of the universe beyond the earth’s atmosphere e.g. eclipses and weather forecasts.
• Natural Resource Management is knowledge of ecosystem management
for conservation and sustainable utilization of natural resources
• Strategic Location and Settlement refers to knowledge and belief in the
inhabitant selection in harmony and balance with the environment and culture of
the community.
๏ Traditional Craftsmanship
Traditional Craftsmanshiprefers to wisdom, technical skills, material
selections, and creative methods that express the local identity, social and culture
development of people. Local materials together with knowledge accumulated from
many generations are developed into expertise of individuals. It becomes quality
and unique craftsmanship of the locality such as silk or cotton weaving, lai or
krajood basketry, silverware, brass making, pottery, leather, wood carving, etc.
“The different characteristics
of climates and environments
in each region of Thailand
contribute to the diverse
culture of living.”