A NEW year is upon us, and I think we can all agree that we want 2021 to be a much better year than 2020 turned out to be.
And what better way to start the year by following these quirky superstitions which are believed to avoid any bad luck for the following 12 months.
1. Don't do laundry
People are told to not do any laundry on New Year's Day, as it could cause a loved one to be 'washed away' - to die - that year. We've seen tens of thousands of avoidable deaths due to Covid-19 in 2020, so this is one to defnitely stick to.
2. Don't do any sweeping
Similar to laundry, people are urged not to do any sweeping, wiping or cleaning on New Year's Day, as it could caused a loved to be 'swept away'. These superstitions are pretty sinister so far...
3. Wear new clothes on New Year's Eve
Dressing in your best new clothes to bring in the year is believed to mean you will continue to look and feel your best throughout the year.
4. Don't eat any chicken
It seems poultry needs to be off the menu on January 1. It's believed if chicken is eaten, diners will spend the year 'picking through the dirt for their dinner' - ie. bringing poverty upon themselves.
5. Hang lemons above your doors
While many of us can't stand the din of fireworks as the clock strikes 12, many of us enjoy them and the noise and light from fireworks, cheering and music is though to ward off evil spirits. Hanging a slice of lemon in your doorway is also believed to do the same and keep good vibes flowing.
6. Open your doors
It might be chilly outside but people are encouraged to open windows and doors to let the old year out and the new one in. With keeping rooms well ventilated an important way to fight the spread of Covid-19, this superstition ticks two boxes at once.
7. Avoid crying cats
Finally, this strange superstition urges people to avoid meowing cats on New Year's Day - bad news if you're a cat owner with a feline that craves attention. It's thought crying cats are a bad omen, so avoiding them is your best bet to a year filled with good luck.
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