Our Sawa Discovery agency recently relocated. And in Thailand, new offices call for ceremonies. We wanted to share these moments of tradition with you :)

Our new workplace received two blessings:

- A blessing rooted in Buddhist tradition to wish good fortune and bless our staff.

- A blessing drawn from popular belief with the installation of a spirit house to protect the premises and ward off any spirits that might affect the agency's business.

First blessing: Buddhist housewarming

In Thailand, Buddhism holds a central place in the daily lives of its people. With nearly 95% of the population identifying as believers, it's common to witness a ceremony at a temple or simply see people making offerings to deities on any given day. The Sawa Discovery team recently moved to new premises. And for Thai employees, it is customary to bless both the staff and the location so that business runs smoothly and prosperity flourishes.

Five monks were present, and this number was far from arbitrary. Indeed, odd numbers are considered lucky numbers. The ceremony begins by lighting candles around the sacred statue, initiating the ritual. (lit by our director Sylvain, as only a man is permitted to do so). For about an hour, the monks recited Buddhist verses while holding a thread that connected them all to the statue on the table to the left.

Then comes the blessing of each staff member and the premises through water sprinkling and recitations.

Following tradition, several team members offered envelopes of money to the monks present, considered as a donation to the temple.

Finally, the ceremony concludes with a meal served to the monks, featuring chicken curry and noodles, considered a symbol of eternity.

Second blessing: the spirit house or Earth Spirit house (ศาล พระภูมิ (San Phra Phum)

In Thailand, it is popular to believe in ghosts and spirits. People even own what is called a spirit house placed outside their homes or offices. It is believed to be inhabited by the "spirit of the earth" which influences the success of agricultural or financial harvests as well as the safety of buildings. It is therefore important to care for it and keep it satisfied. This is expressed through regular offerings (food, drinks, garlands, etc.). It is a belief rooted in animist and folkloric religion.

The spirit house must be positioned according to specific rules: it must face north, be raised sufficiently above the ground, and not cast a shadow on the building it is meant to protect. In July, Sawa Discovery had its new spirit house installed so that the agency's business would proceed without hindrance.

The team first set up the small shrine in the designated direction. (It should be noted that only men can touch and handle the spirit house). Then, after some words of blessing, our director Maneerat Wiangyot Tucker took charge of planting wooden stakes around the agency, like an invisible barrier, before pouring water and flowers over it.

Now that our new offices are protected and our team blessed, we wish prosperity to Sawa Discovery and remain eager to share this land rich in tradition with you.