恭喜发财! As we celebrate the Lunar New Year, it's important to honour the traditions that have been passed down through generations. These customs are believed to bring good fortune and prosperity for the year ahead.
Six Things to Avoid on Chinese New Year's Day
Don't sweep or take out rubbish
According to China Highlights, sweeping on the first day of the Lunar New Year is believed to 'sweep wealth away'. Taking out rubbish is also discouraged, as it is said to symbolise throwing out good fortune from the home.
Avoid 'unlucky' words
Negative language is traditionally avoided during the festive period. China Highlights explains: 'Nobody wants to hear words with negative meanings during the Lunar New Year period. Avoid saying words related to death, sickness, poverty, ghosts.' Instead, people often use softer expressions, such as saying someone is 'gone' rather than 'died'.
No breakfast porridge
Traditional beliefs warn against eating porridge or meat for breakfast on the first day of the new year. The humble bowl of porridge has long been associated with poverty, and starting the year with it is considered a bad omen that may signal a financially difficult year ahead.
Avoid washing or cutting hair
Hair washing on New Year's Day is believed to 'wash one's fortune away'. Cutting hair is also discouraged, as tradition holds that it could bring misfortune to uncles within the family.
Don't wash clothes
The first and second days of the new year are considered the birthday of the water god in some Chinese traditions. Washing clothes during this period is seen as disrespectful, as well as symbolically pouring away wealth.
Do not wear black or white clothing
While red is widely recognised as a lucky colour during the Lunar New Year, black and white are traditionally avoided. China Highlights notes these colours are associated with mourning, making them unsuitable for a celebration focused on luck and renewal.
May the Year of the Snake bring you prosperity, health, and happiness! 🐉
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