The animism of the lawa. (which has varying degrees of adherence according to location and adoption of Thai culture) is essentially a belief in benevolent and malevolent spirits, which dwell
in all things. It is necessary to make offerings and sacrifices of pigs , chickens, rice, wine and if available, buffaloes, in order to propitiate the spirits. In addition, they have practices which are performed to
honor the notable dead ancestors, whose spirits are thought to return tr, bless and look after the surviving relatives. They have no images or temples, but believe in shamans and exorcists who can remove bad
spirits from various localities. or when they enter human bodies. Spirit cords around the wrists and neck are believed to protect the wearer against malevolent spirits