A superstition is a practice or belief originating from fear of the unknown or ignorance. Most superstitions are centuries old, arising from the human intuition to attribute logic to the inexplicable.
Nevertheless, researchers have linked the unfounded features to positive effects. According to research findings, people who believe in them can frequently demonstrate improved performance and experience reduced stress. Here’s a list of house-related superstitions you should know about.
1. Bringing an old broom into a new house is bad luck
Many believe that old brooms in your old home not only carry the physical dust and dirt of the old place, but also the negative elements of your life. This doesn’t imply that your life was entirely negative. However, the broom would embody any negativity you faced.
Bear in mind that you should carry in the new broom as you enter your new place. These days, you’re more likely to have a sweeper or vacuum, both of which may be more costly to replace than a broom. Still, you might consider purchasing a new one if they’re old with or without the superstition.
2. Painting the Porch Blue
In the U.S., it’s quite common to see homes or part of them with blue paint on the fences, porch ceilings and shutters.
The reason originates from an old American superstition, which holds that spirits can’t cross water. Therefore, using blue paint on a home is a symbolic means of keeping evil spirits away.
Furthermore, this color is supposed to drive mosquitoes and other insects away because it resembles the sky.
3. Moving into a new home on a Saturday, Friday, or Rainy day is bad luck
Common Western superstitions will inform you not to move into a new home on a Saturday or Friday. These days are supposedly unlucky and you may never settle into your new place fully.
One superstition advises people against moving on a rainy day though it may be hard to plan. Moving on a rainy day may be an indication of bad luck and your belongings are likely to get wet.
A number of cultures propose other days that are ideal for moving. For instance, the Indian culture proposes Thursday because it’s supposedly the luckiest day.
In terms of months, other superstitions state that July, April, and November are the unlucky months in which moving should take place.
4. Bringing Salt and Bread into a New Home wards off evil spirits
According to Jewish custom, bread is the most basic food, symbolizing life sustenance. On the other hand, salt never spoils or decays, signifying permanence in a new home.
Another superstition dictates that you sprinkle salt in every room and around each doorway upon entering a new home to keep off any evil spirits.
Traditionally, the previous owners of a home would leave rice or bread and salt behind to keep evil spirits away but since it’s unlikely to find former tenants doing so in this time and age, others maintain the tradition by carrying some salt and bread when they enter a new home for the first time.
5. Carrying a hoe into the home is bad luck
In the event that you do so by mistake, superstition dictates that carrying it out backwards using the same door will reverse the bad luck.
6. Lighting a candle brings blessings
Various cultures perform this ritual in a new home, particularly on the first night. The ritual supposedly brings light while casting out darkness-both symbolically and literally. As a result, it bestows a blessing upon the home’s occupants and chases away the evil shadows.
7. Boil rice and milk for long life
Boiling these two in an open pot until the mixture boils over the sides signifies long life and purity. Furthermore, the overflowing pot signifies the abundance of wealth and prosperity, which will bless your new home.
Final Thoughts
Whether or not you choose to believe in these superstitions, some people find that engaging in some of them to be an enjoyable experience. However, don’t let the superstition consume you; all you need is a positive attitude.
For more information on house superstitions, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave a comment.