In Tibetan Buddhist culture, the written word is highly respected and prayer flags in particular are regarded as sacred objects as they are printed with Buddhist prayers. The sacred images and inscriptions on prayer flags are believed to be transmitted into the world through the wind, exerting positive energy into the environment and bringing benefit for all living beings. They are, accordingly, handled with respect by Tibetans and it is considered inappropriate for sacred texts of any kind to be carried under the arm or lower than the waist. In particular, the sacred word should not be touched by the feet35. In the photos below, which circulated on Chinese social media in August 2014, Chinese tourists are shown to be standing, walking over and sitting on prayer flags.