A large portion of Russians, about two thirds, still observe household rituals tied to cleaning and daily routines. The Avito Services platform shared these findings from a recent survey conducted with the participation of ten thousand respondents, as reported by socialbites.ca.
The survey reveals that longstanding traditions remain common in homes. The ritual described as “sit on the road” has strong resonance, with around 65% of participants acknowledging it. Close behind, roughly 63% engage in practices such as spitting over the shoulder, tapping a board to avoid bad luck, and checking the mirror when returning home for forgotten items. Additionally, more than half of those surveyed note that guests approaching soon after a fork or spoon falls can be anticipated in advance. The spread of these beliefs shows how everyday actions are infused with symbolic meaning across generations.
One striking takeaway is that superstition appears more pronounced among women than men—about 27% of women versus 21% of men. In family settings, many respondents reported a habit of enforcing barriers at the doorstep, with over half saying there is often a rule about not crossing the threshold, and a notable portion adhering to the practice of avoiding nighttime trash disposal. Others view breaking dishes as an act tied to luck, and the tone of family rituals underscores how cultural norms shape daily behavior.
Beyond the top rituals, delaying cleaning when loved ones are on the road and allowing a cat to enter a new home first are also common traditions, seen in a significant share of households. A portion of participants, however, believe certain acts should be avoided due to perceived misfortune, such as dressing inside out or attempting to cut one’s own hair. The survey paints a nuanced picture of how superstition and habit weave together within Russian homes, reflecting values around hospitality, protection, and the desire to influence outcomes through small, symbolic acts.
In summary, these findings suggest that many Russians retain a practical yet symbolic approach to everyday life. Rituals around thresholds, cleanliness, and domestic routines remain part of family life, reinforcing social cohesion and shared identity. While some practices are widely observed and passed down, others linger as playful beliefs that families negotiate within modern living.
Previously reported that many Russians resist adopting certain pop culture icons, which echoes a broader tendency to preserve traditional habits even as daily life evolves. The survey underscores how superstition, humor, and practical routines coexist in contemporary households.