From My Lens: Lucky practices Filipinos follow for the New Year

Who doesn’t want to feel lucky as the New Year rolls in? Just like making New Year’s resolutions to upgrade to a version 2.0 of ourselves, we also want to leave misfortunes behind and start fresh. For many Filipinos, certain practices are believed to invite luck and positivity.

Chinese-Filipino families, for example, often consult feng shui experts to align energies for the upcoming year. But luck doesn’t always need elaborate planning—it can be as simple as preparing 12 different kinds of round fruits for media noche, each representing prosperity for the months ahead. Here are some Filipino lucky practices believed to set the tone for a prosperous year ahead!

Put in at the Right Spot

Even though you don’t have a Chinese lineage, you may have tried feng shui before. This is an ancient Chinese practice that tells the best arrangement inside your home to create harmony and balance, inviting good luck, wealth, and love. This could involve energy-cleansing steps like opening all the house windows, placing a bowl of salt in every corner of a room, or arranging your bed diagonally opposite the door. You can even invite a Feng Shui master for a proper consultation!

The Most Common Filipino Lucky Practice

One of the most popular New Year’s traditions in Filipino households is placing 12 round fruits on the table. The round shape symbolizes wealth, while the number "12" represents the months ahead. It's not just for decoration—choose fruits you enjoy, as they’re meant to be eaten too! Make sure your 12 fruits are both lucky and tasty.

Colors That Bring You Luck

Lucky colors are said to attract good fortune, shifting with the year’s energy. While the specific colors may vary depending on feng shui and Chinese zodiac traditions, vibrant hues like red, yellow, green, and gold are often associated with prosperity, recognition, and growth. Incorporate these colors into your wardrobe, home décor, or even your media noche table setting to invite positive energy.

Aim High, Jump Higher

Jumping into the new year—literally—is a quirky Filipino tradition said to help you grow taller. It’s especially popular among kids—and those who may feel a little vertically challenged—because elders often say this can help you grow taller. While there’s no scientific proof to back this up, it might have something to do with the idea of stretching your joints and muscles. So, if you’re aiming not just for luck and fortune but also for a little extra height, why not give it a jump?

Make Some Noise

Noise is an essential part of every New Year’s celebration. Aside from the loud bangs and pops of firecrackers and fireworks, one Filipino lucky practice is tossing coins inside the house to create jingling sounds. It’s not just for fun—this act symbolizes inviting good fortune into your home while driving away bad energy or negative vibes. Whether you’re jumping for joy or making a racket with coins, these traditions are not just about superstition—they’re about embracing the year with excitement and positivity.

While these Filipino lucky practices can bring a sense of joy and optimism, true prosperity comes from hard work, resilience, and a positive mindset. Remember, luck may help set the tone, but it’s your actions that truly shape the year ahead.