Weird Superstitions

Never Say “Happy Birthday” Too Early

Celebrating or even congratulating someone on a birthday before the day arrives brings bad luck, at least in Russia that is.

Don’t Place Two Mirrors Opposite Each Other

The infinite reflections may look cool, but in Mexico and elsewhere facing mirrors open a doorway for the devil.

Never Stick Your Chopstick Straight Up

Poking chopsticks down into your food is a big no-no in Japan. The utensils look like the unlucky number four, which means death, and also the incense sticks used at funerals. Another tip: Don’t point your chopsticks at anyone. That’s just plain rude.

Don’t Go Right Home After a Funeral

A Filipino tradition called “pagpag” dictates that people never go straight back to the house after a wake. Otherwise a bad spirit might tag along and come inside. Mourners will make a stop at a restaurant or store first just in case.

Don’t Cheers With Water

A German superstition declares that if you cheers with water you’re actually wishing death upon the people you’re drinking with. The idea stems from Greek mythology.

Keep Your New Shoes Off the Table

In Britain, it’s considered bad luck because it is supposed to symbolize the death of a loved one. Back in the day, placing someone’s shoes on a table was a way to let their family know that they passed away. Nowadays, it’s also just bad etiquette.

Itchy Hands Have Financial Repercussions

In Turkey, an itchy right hand means you’ll come into some money but an itch on your left means you’ll lose money.

Stepping in Dog Poop Isn’t Necessarily Bad

This one seems unlucky all around but just go with it. Stepping in dog poop is actually considered good luck in France if you do it with your left foot. It’s only bad luck if you step with your right foot.