The practice of wearing neck rings, often referred to as neck coils or neck rings, is traditionally associated with certain ethnic groups in various parts of the world, particularly in parts of Africa and Southeast Asia. One of the most well-known tribes associated with this practice is the Kayan Lahwi tribe, also known as the “long-necked” or “giraffe” tribe, who reside in Myanmar (Burma) and Thailand. The women of the Kayan tribe traditionally wear brass coils around their necks, starting from a young age, which create the appearance of elongated necks. This practice is primarily cultural and holds significance within the tribe’s traditions and identity.
Archeologists believe that there are three possibilities for why women wear brass coils. The first theory is to prevent the Kayan women from being sold to slavery or kidnapped by an enemy tribe by making them less beautiful. Other archeologists believe that it was to prevent a tiger attack where they usually aim at the neck. The third theory is that the women are made to wear the rings to resemble a dragon, an important symbol in Kayan culture. Whether it was initially used for beauty or something else has changed depending on the tribe or culture that’s using them.
Neck rings have been proven to cause health risks ranging from respiratory issues, chaffing, and bruising, to difficulty in moving your neck. Despite this, many women still wear the longest neck rings they can manage.
Each of the tribe women has their own reasons for wearing neck rings. However, What does matter to me is whether or not a person wearing them is voluntarily doing so.
I really wish that the women who inhabit these tribes are using their free will to keep the traditions of their cultures alive and not that they’re being forced to damage their body structure for reasons beyond their control.