Wake up on the wrong side of the bed: a superstition explored

Have you ever wondered if there's truly a right or wrong side of the bed? The saying "getting up on the wrong side of the bed" refers to starting the day in a grouchy or uncomfortable mood. Conversely, if you wake up feeling refreshed and ready to seize the day, you can safely assume you got up on the right side. Today we'll explore the origins of this popular idiom and delve into different perspectives surrounding this age-old question.

The exact origin of the phrase remains somewhat of a mystery, inviting various interpretations. According to E. Cobham Brewer's Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, an old superstition suggested that getting out of bed with your left leg first was unlucky. This belief allegedly emerged during Ancient Roman times when many Romans were cautious about always getting out of bed on the right side, as the left side was associated with misfortune. There were even claims, including one harbored by Augustus Caesar, that putting on your left shoe first could bring bad luck!

Alternatively, some propose that the phrase embodies a broader aspect of human nature – the notion that situations can have both positive and negative elements. Choosing to start your day off right involves consciously deciding to focus on the good and not allow stress or worries to dampen your spirits.

Interestingly, a few sleep scientists incorporating psychological perspectives suggest that there might indeed be a right and a wrong side of the bed. They contend that the left side of the bed is associated with the logical and rational functions of the brain, whereas the right side is linked to emotions and imagination. According to their theory, getting out of bed on the left side allows individuals to direct their energy towards logical thinking, helping to maintain emotional stability throughout the day.

Furthermore, proponents of Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese practice of arranging objects harmoniously within an environment, also emphasize the left side as the preferred side to get out of bed. In Feng Shui, the left side is believed to be connected to family, health, wealth, and power.

Now that we've explored these perspectives, it's up to you to decide whether there indeed exists a definitive right or wrong side of the bed. However, one thing remains certain – regardless of which side you wake up on, it is within your power to transform a potentially gloomy start into a positive and fulfilling day. So, go ahead and embrace the day with an optimistic mindset, no matter which side of the bed you happen to rise from!

Earlier SSP reported about 5 fascinating Polish superstitions.