10 Ways You've Been Accidentally Insulting People Every Day

1. Pat On The Head

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If you find yourself visiting Thailand, Laos, or Sri Lanka, try to avoid patting anyone on the head.

It already seems condescending to do so anyway, right? But what if it is a cute little kid who just showed you the coolest magic trick? Still don't do it.

You see, these countries have a large Buddhist population, and the head is considered the most sacred part of the body in Buddhism. It is where the soul, or spirit, resides. Therefore, the patronizing act of patting someone on the head is magnified in these areas. If you think this rule begins and ends at people, think again. It is also considered disrespectful to touch the head of a statue. Especially a statue of Buddha.

Fortunately, you may touch the heads of close family members and friends as that is not considered rude.

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