Dos and don’ts for a prosperous Chinese New Year
AS THE Chinese New Year is approaching on February 10, 2024, this day will be marked as an annual celebration of happiness, success, joy and new beginnings. Regarded as one of the most important events, this Spring Festival marks celebration duration stretching around 2 weeks. While dragon dance and red envelopes become eye catchers of the event, here are some of the dos and don’ts of Chinese New Year.
DOS
• Cleaning and trimming – Week before engage in thorough cleaning, for the removal of dirt and negative energies from the house so that there is passage building for new and positive energies which can bring luck and prosperity.
• ·Decorations – Red is the primary colour used in Chinese astrology, symbolising luck and prosperity. Adorn your houses with red decoratives, red lanterns, red balloons, red candles, red carpets and other red auspicious symbols.
• Family dinners – The grand eve of the new year marks the reunion of the family members and friends with traditional dishes and symbolic foods such as dumplings, fishes, rice balls, stuffed buns, noodles, etc., which represents their tradition.
• Offering sacrifices to ancestors – In China, on the occasion of New Year eve, families visit graves of their ancestors.
• Fireworks and firecrackers – People enthusiastically focus on bursting crackers because it is believed that the noise scares away evil spirits, while the bright lights symbolise the hope for a bright future.
• Dragon dance – Dragon dance, followed by rhythmic beats is believed to usher good luck, fortune and discard evil energies.
DON’TS
• Avoid cleaning on New Year’s Day – Refrain from cleaning or sweeping your home on New Year’s Day, as it is believed to sweep away good luck and fortune.
• Don’t say unlucky words – Be mindful of the words you use. Avoid mentioning negative or unlucky topics during the celebrations to ensure a positive and auspicious beginning.
• Avoid negative actions – Steer clear of arguments, confrontations, or negative behaviours. Harmony is paramount during the New Year.
• Don’t break things – Be cautious with your actions, as breaking things is considered an ill step. Handle fragile items with care to avoid any negativity.
• Postpone haircuts and debts – It’s considered inauspicious to get haircuts during the first month of the Lunar New Year. Additionally, try to settle debts before the New Year to start fresh.
• Limit the use of sharp objects – Sharp objects like knives and scissors should be used cautiously, as they are believed to cut off good fortune. Handle them carefully to avoid negative energies.