One from the archives. This was from a trip to Chaing Mai quite a few years ago, visiting the Karen Tribe near the border with Burma.
Neck Rings are an age old custom dating back to the 11th century. It symbolises beauty and elegance. Some rings can weigh up to 20lbs!
Contrary to popular belief they don’t actually make the neck longer but push the collar bone and ribs down. This practice still goes on today but now very rarely.
Posted for Becky’s SquareUp Challenge
Travels with Ali 
It looks so uncomfortable, but you wouldn’t slouch 🙂 🙂
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No you wouldn’t but it does weaken the neck muscles considerably
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Goodness, that looks seriously uncomfortable
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Doesn’t it!
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this is so extraordinary – what age do they start?
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From five years I believe..looks painful doesn’t it
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woah 5years – hmm yes not something I wound want to do
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Nor me, better than footbinding though !
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ooh yes, very good point. The things cultures come up with for women
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It’s the men ..at last women are standing up for themselves
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Reminds me that I could do a post on the Paduang (the Long-necked tribe) as I did some serious research for an article many, many years ago for the now defunct SHE magazine. I shall dig it out and see if I can’t condense it into something for a post – thanks for reminding me. Nice photo of you and the Karen lady.
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I used to love She and was very disappointed when it finished!
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it can be elegant but looks so uncomfortable. great take on the challenge! 🙂
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Excellent photos Ali! When we were in Chaing Mai I was also fascinated by these adornments. I didn’t realize they could be so heavy. No wonder they push the collar bone and ribs down. I guess I’ll stick with my short, little neck. 🙂 Wishing you a fabulous 2021. 🙂 ~Terri
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Thanks for your comments Terri
Happy new year to you also 😀
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[…] is also plenty of support and creativity; from tupperware to views of a Borrower (well in my eyes at least) to fixer […]
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20lb on the neck!
This is way too much.
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So awful!
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My claustrophobia wouldn’t allow me to wear one of those. I have a hard time wearing a necklace. Great captures! 🙂
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It is a weird conception ..I’m not sure how long the interval is before the next one goes on
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