2023-09-04 07:06:00
Coconut Shell Shoes: A Perfect Blend of Health and Local Wisdom in Samut Songkhram
Samut Songkhram, a small province in Thailand, is not only rich in natural resources but is also known for its craftsmanship and arts. One such remarkable craft that originated in the reign of King Rama II is the production of shoes using coconut shells. The Plai Phong Phang Subdistrict Shoes Manufacturing Enterprise Group in Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram Province, has been creating unique and healthy footwear, all while adding value to local waste materials.
The province of Samut Songkhram is blessed with abundant natural resources, particularly coconut gardens. The locals have been producing coconut sugar, making it one of the top coconut sugar producers in the country. Additionally, the province boasts a rich heritage of arts and crafts that date back to the reign of King Rama II. Skilled craftsmen have been adding value to local waste materials, including coconut shells, to create various products, including shoes.
Shoes have always held significant importance in people’s lives throughout history. They not only need to be safe and comfortable but also have a positive impact on health. The Plai Phong Phang Sub-district Shoes Manufacturing Enterprise Group initially produced sandals for both men and women and later ventured into creating footwear using coconut shells, which are readily available in the local area.
Mrs. Chula Chanpeng, the 63-year-old chairman of the community enterprise group, shared that their ancestors’ wisdom led them to discover the health benefits of coconut shells. Coconut shells, when in contact with the skin or bones for an extended period, can help relax the body, reduce aches, and promote improved blood circulation. The craftsmen creatively modified the coconut shells by drilling them into small round pellets, stringing them together like beads, and attaching them to shoe soles made of animal skin. The result is a genuinely unique and comfortable shoe.
For people who are new to wearing coconut shell shoes or have diabetes, Mrs. Chula recommends wearing socks initially and walking short distances. If any discomfort or pain arises, the shoes should be removed, and the process repeated until one gets accustomed to wearing them. The maintenance of coconut shell shoes is similar to that of regular shoes, but frequent exposure to water should be avoided to prevent damage to the stringed beads.
While there is no scientific evidence yet to support the claims of healing various diseases, the rich Thai culture combined with local wisdom encourages the belief in the potential therapeutic effects of coconut shell shoes. Mrs. Chula asserts that ancient people relied on local wisdom when seeking medical treatments. Therefore, it is not surprising that coconut shell shoes might offer relief for foot-related ailments.
The Plai Phong Phang Sub-district Shoe Manufacturing Enterprise Group uses simple tools such as hammers, sewing machines, pliers, and rubber glue to create these unique shoes. They utilize genuine cow leather, glossy leather, chamois leather, and PVC artificial leather to cater to different preferences. The shoe-making process involves drawing the design on paper, cutting and sewing the leather, and attaching it to foam or rubber soles. Every step of the process involves the collective labor of the villagers.
Apart from the coconut shell shoes, the Plai Phong Phang Sub-district shoes production community enterprise group also produces various healthy products, including wooden sticks for massages, “Kala” for unlocking fingers, cotton neck pillows, and cotton shell back cushions. The price range of coconut shell shoes and other products starts from as low as 100 baht and goes up to 590 baht.
Anyone interested in purchasing coconut shell shoes or other coconut shell products can contact Mrs. Chula Chanpheng, the chairman of the Plai Phong Phang Subdistrict Shoe Community Enterprise Group. She can be reached at the entrance of Prachakositaram Temple, Plai Phongpang Subdistrict, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram Province, or via telephone at 091-4099088 or 064-2729189.
The innovation of producing coconut shell shoes not only showcases the creativity and skills of local craftsmen but also highlights the rich cultural heritage and wisdom of Samut Songkhram. These unique shoes offer comfort, style, and a touch of traditional Thai craftsmanship that is passed down through generations.]
#Coconut #shell #shoes #health #local #wisdom #Plai #Phong #Phang #Subdistrict #Samut #Songkhram #Province