For many Asian families, Tet Nguyen Dan is not merely a festival but a time to observe strict traditional rituals. Karen Gray, a Singaporean woman residing in London for over 25 years, states that these habits are deeply ingrained in the consciousness of those living abroad, especially during Tet Nguyen Dan. According to Chinese metaphysics, the combination of the Horse zodiac sign and the Fire element predicts a year of strong shifts and volatility. This forecast makes adherence to ancient taboos a psychological solution for seeking peace and stability.

The atmosphere of Tet Binh Ngo celebrations in China. Photo: Reuters

Tet Nguyen Dan marks a period for shedding the old and embracing positive energy related to health and wealth. Traditional customs in many countries dictate that house cleaning must be finished before New Year's Eve. During the first 15 days of the new year, many people avoid cleaning or sweeping their homes, believing this action would "sweep away" prosperity from their doors.

Personal grooming also adheres to specific rules. In Chinese, the word for "hair" (phat) is a homophone for "prosperity". Consequently, cutting hair during the initial days of the new year is seen as severing one's luck and wealth. Furthermore, washing hair on the first day is also limited to prevent washing away early new year blessings.

Beyond grooming, other taboos are observed. Red clothing is favored to attract good luck and ward off bad omens, while black and white, colors associated with mourning, are typically avoided. Other prohibitions include not taking out trash, not lending money, and maintaining a cheerful demeanor, actively avoiding arguments or crying on the first day to ensure a harmonious new year.

Within the culture of ethnic Chinese communities in Southeast Asia, various good luck customs are practiced. For instance, rolling a pineapple into a new home is believed to invite wealth and prosperity. The custom of eating vegetarian on the full moon and first day of the lunar month is also maintained, reflecting a beautiful aspect of Buddhist culture.

Buddhists clean deity statues at Amurva Bhumi Temple (Jakarta, Indonesia) before Tet Nguyen Dan, preparing to welcome the year of Binh Ngo. Photo: Reuters

Legends are also deeply interwoven into daily life and folk beliefs. Children are often reminded not to point at the moon or place food on the floor. Beyond basic hygiene, these practices signify reverence for food and blessings. In popular belief, the Kitchen God (Tho Cong) is believed to constantly observe all household activities.

Cultural experts note that traditional customs are experiencing a revival, fueled by the "Chinamaxxing" trend on social media. This Gen Z term, combining "China" and the suffix "maxxing" (maximizing), describes practicing traditional East Asian lifestyles in modern life. From drinking warm water and using traditional herbs like dong quai and goji berries to carrying medicated oil, the younger generation is transforming their grandparents' habits into a distinct lifestyle. Even in cuisine, the yin-yang balance, considering "cold" and "hot" foods, is still emphasized, demonstrating cultural continuity across generations.

Despite originating from diverse regions such as Fujian, Taiwan, or Hong Kong, a common desire among migrant communities is to preserve their heritage within Western societies. Maintaining these customs, from eating habits to the taboo of cutting hair on the first day of the new year, is not only a belief in good fortune but also a way to affirm ancestral identity in a multicultural world.

Mai Phuong (According to The Independent)