Introduction
Every culture and society has its own norms and etiquettes that guide how we interact with one another. However, some of these norms can seem peculiar and even ridiculous to others. In this article, we will explore several such social norms and superstitions that can often feel outdated or unnecessary in today's world. We will also discuss how understanding and adjusting these norms can help us interact more respectfully and naturally.

Body Shaming and Privacy Intrusion

One of the most pervasive and frustrating norms that comes to mind is the phenomenon of body shaming. Whether it's being pointed at for weight gain during a lockdown or feeling scrutinized for weight loss, these public comments can be incredibly distressing. People often overshare or gratuitously comment on others' physical appearance, which can lead to uncomfortable or even hostile interactions. It is essential to remember that a person's weight or body shape is none of your business unless they explicitly share it with you. A genuine concern for someone's well-being would be to ask if they are doing okay rather than speculating about their body changes.

Privacy is another aspect that can be violated in personal interactions. While it's natural to maintain some level of privacy, especially in modern times where personal boundaries are increasingly becoming a topic of discussion, some individuals still tend to intrude into others' personal lives. For instance, there are some who would call or message you in the most inappropriate times, just to know what you're up to. This kind of behavior can feel invasive and was very reminiscent of the behavior of acquaintances who call to check if you’re okay when you're studying but now suddenly ask about your salary when you're independent. In such situations, it’s best to stick to casual social media updates and basic check-ins, and avoid more invasive inquiries that can make the other person feel uncomfortable.

The Ancien Gif: “Bless You” After Sneezing

Another often-overlooked superstition is the tradition of saying "Bless you" after someone sneezes. The origins of this practice are rooted in outdated medical beliefs and are not based on modern scientific understanding. Historical accounts claim that saying "bless you" was meant to prevent a mortal disease, likely during the plague pandemics of the 14th century. However, contemporary medical science understands that a sneeze is simply the body's natural way of expelling irritants and does not cause any harm. Meanwhile, Seinfeld, the famous American television show, introduced an alternative to the traditional phrase, such as saying "Bless you" replaced with "Gesundheit," which is equally effective in maintaining a balance of formality and discomfort.

The expectation to acknowledge a sneeze with "Bless you" can sometimes lead to awkward silences or an uncomfortable sense of obligation. If the person doesn't respond with "Bless you," the conversation might become uncomfortable or strained. Seinfeld's idea of using "Gesundheit" instead can break such tension and keep the conversation flowing smoothly. It is a small but significant change that can make a big difference in terms of comfort and ease of communication.

Why These Norms Matter

Understanding and adapting to social norms and superstitions is crucial for effective communication and mutual respect. By being mindful of these practices and their origins, we can navigate interactions more smoothly and respectfully. While some norms, like body shaming and superstitious gestures, may seem outdated, they still play a role in shaping our interpersonal relationships. By being sensitive to these norms and adapting our behavior accordingly, we can foster a more positive and harmonious social environment.

Overall, it is important to keep an open mind and evaluate the norms that we observe in our everyday lives. By doing so, we can better understand the context behind these practices and adapt them to suit our modern world. Whether it's respecting someone's privacy or recognizing the outdated nature of certain superstitions, a little flexibility can go a long way in enhancing our social interactions.