Superstition is rife in Bali, although beliefs vary widely even within families. The Balinese are practical about their religion. While large and fancy offerings are made to the gods during festivals, once the gods have taken the essence, the Balinese eat the food. Religious celebrations are also feasts. Going to the Temple Samuh, 1989.
Religious festivals are an important social activity.
For those who come from polyglot cultures, one of the remarkable things about the Balinese is the great commonality of their experience. While the culture lacks the rich diversity of the West, there is a fundamental agreement about many aspects of life. When Balinese gather to deal with some conflict, they can begin the discussion with a presumption of general agreement about many fundamental values. Such assumptions often lead to difficulties in the West. Physical ailments are commonly treated by massage in a manner akin to chiropractic technique.