Filipinos are known to be very superstitious, and it’s been this way for years. In every single occasion from weddings, to birthdays, to the new year, there are a list of guidelines on what you should and shouldn’t do so that you and your loved ones don’t get any bad luck.
While superstitions aren’t exactly proven to be true, Filipinos would rather just follow them than suffer the consequences they might bring. Every New Year’s Eve, this is the case.
The New Year is a supposed “new beginning” or “clean slate” for every single person. Filipinos prepare their homes for the New Year by making sure that they bring in nothing but good luck. After all, Filipinos want nothing more than a prosperous year!
Here are some New Year “pamahiins” or superstitions that were done by Filipino families this week and are widely followed around the country:
Having Kids Jump at Midnight
Children are usually asked to hump twelve times once the clock strikes twelve – especially those that need a boost in height. Of course, there are some adults who join in on the fun in hopes of growing taller, too!
Wearing Polka-dotted Clothes
Circles are said to be a symbol of prosperity, which is why many chose to wear their polka-dotted outfits on New Year’s Eve.
Scattering Coins around the House
On December 31, adults throw coins around the house and leave it there until January 1. This is to symbolize the inflow of money the entire year. People are discouraged from picking up the coins, as this might mean cutting off the good luck from flowing.
Don’t Spend Money on January 1
People believe that the way they spend the first day of the year is how they’ll spend the entire year. So, on January 1, many people chose not to spend on anything as this means they’ll be able to manage their money wisely the entire year. Instead, people chose to do what they love, and keep a happy and positive disposition so that they remain this way for the next twelve months.
Have Round Fruits on the Table
Dining tables are filled with round fruits during New Year’s Eve to bring in good energy that brings prosperity to the entire family in the year to come.
Did you follow these superstitions at home, mama? Whether or not you did, the new year is a great way to set new intentions and goals for you and your family. Whatever it is you’d like to set for yourself, we at edamama wish you the best of luck and know that whatever it is you’d like to achieve, you can do it as long as you believe!
Have a Happy New Year!
