Shakun and ApshakunSneezing: meaning
What it is said to mean in tradition, what is really happening and a sensible way to think about it.
In popular belief
A single sneeze at the start of a journey or a task is said in many Indian families to be a reason to stop for a moment and begin again; two sneezes are said to be a good sign. People often say a blessing, "jeeyo" or "bless you", when someone sneezes.
What is really happening
A sneeze is a reflex that clears the nose. The custom of blessing a sneeze exists in many cultures, and the pause it creates is a small courtesy.
A sensible way to think about it
Take a sip of water, wait a moment and carry on. If you are sneezing a lot, you may be coming down with a cold or have an allergy.
See also
- Eye twitching Tradition says that the right eye twitching is a good sign for men and the left
- Itching palm In India, an itch on the right palm is said to mean money is coming, and on the
- Hiccups Popularly said to mean that someone is remembering you.
- Ringing in the ear In some places, the right ear ringing is said to mean that someone speaks well o
- Itching foot Said in some places to mean a journey coming.
- Tingling lip Said in some places to mean food or a feast coming.
Questions people ask
What does sneezing mean?
A single sneeze at the start of a journey or a task is said in many Indian families to be a reason to stop for a moment and begin again; two sneezes are said to be a good sign. People often say a blessing, "jeeyo" or "bless you", when someone sneezes.
Does it predict anything?
No. It is a tradition and there is no evidence that it predicts anything.
This page reports popular beliefs for interest. Omens do not predict anything, and nothing here is advice. Please do not cancel anything important, such as a medical appointment, an exam or a journey, because of an omen.