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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Placing keys on a table is considered unlucky. (Sweden)
3
When you speak of bad luck, it is said that one should always knock on wood. Also knocking when speaking of good luck apparently helps with having good luck. This is an old Celtic tradition related to belief of wood spirits.
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Before traveling a person should, apparently, sit on their luggage. (Russian)
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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.
64
An acorn should be carried to bring luck and ensure a long life.
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Amber beads, worn as a necklace, can protect against illness or cure colds.
89
If you catch a falling leaf on the first day of autumn you will not catch a cold all winter.
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