At my cousin’s house, I was surprised to find they kept all mirrors covered at night. Do people usually do this? Why?

When visiting relatives, it’s not uncommon to encounter peculiar customs that pique our curiosity. During a recent stay at my cousin’s house, I was struck by a particular tradition: the covering of all mirrors at night. Although unfamiliar to me, this practice raised intriguing questions about its prevalence and underlying reasons.

Cultural and Superstitious Beliefs Surrounding Mirror Covering

1. Mystical Significance: Across various cultures, mirrors hold mystical significance, often believed to serve as gateways to other realms. The act of covering mirrors at night is thought to ward off malevolent spirits and prevent their entry into our world.
2. Customs of Mourning: Historically, covering mirrors during periods of mourning was a sign of respect for the deceased. It was believed that leaving mirrors uncovered could trap the soul of the departed, hindering their journey to the afterlife.
3. Protection of the Soul: Some traditions suggest that mirrors not only reflect our physical appearance but also our essence. Consequently, covering mirrors at night is viewed as a means of safeguarding one’s spirit during sleep, a time of vulnerability.
4. Feng Shui Principles: In the practice of feng shui, mirrors are strategically positioned to balance energies within the home. However, during nighttime, when the focus is on rest and tranquility, uncovered mirrors may disrupt this balance, prompting their covering to promote a peaceful environment.

Practical Considerations for Mirror Covering

1. Promoting Better Sleep: Covering mirrors can help reduce ambient light in a room, contributing to improved sleep quality. The reflection of moonlight or artificial light may otherwise prove distracting or disrupt one’s sleep cycle.
2. Mitigating Digital Disturbances: In today’s digital age, mirrors can inadvertently amplify light emitted from screens and electronic devices. By covering mirrors, individuals can minimize these disturbances and create a more conducive sleep environment.
3. Psychological Comfort: Mirrors, particularly in dimly lit rooms, can evoke feelings of unease or superstition, especially among children or those with vivid imaginations. Covering them may offer psychological reassurance and promote a sense of security.

Is Mirror Covering a Common Practice?

While not a widespread practice in contemporary households, mirror covering persists in certain regions and among individuals adhering to cultural or superstitious beliefs. It remains a personal or cultural choice rather than a universal habit.

The discovery of my cousin’s nightly ritual shed light on the diverse customs observed worldwide. Whether rooted in superstition, tradition, or practicality, the act of covering mirrors at night serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate tapestry of human beliefs and domestic rituals.