A single magpie is considered a sign of bad luck. A Guide to the Scientific Knowledge of Things Familiar recites an old proverb concerning the incidence of bad weather when magpies forage alone and a possible scientific explanation for this.
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Some motorcycle enthusiasts hang a biker's bell from a portion of their bike to protect themselves from evil road spirits.
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Amber beads, worn as a necklace, can protect against illness or cure colds.
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Once a wedding ring has been placed on the finger, it is considered bad luck to remove it.
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Many believe that if all of the candles on a birthday cake are blown out with one breath, while making a silent wish, the wish will come true.
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Before traveling a person should, apparently, sit on their luggage. (Russian)
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According to an age old custom, carrying a dead shrew in your pocket wards off rheumatism!
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Opening an umbrella indoors is said to result in 21 days of bad luck. Some traditions hold that it is only bad luck if the umbrella is placed over the head of someone while indoors.
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