Russian habits

6 Russian habits you should adopt

 

When the tough gets going, the going gets tough – and Russians know how to weather a storm. They also know a couple of other tricks to make life that little bit easier.

Here are six of the best.

Russian food

giftsBring a gift

When visiting a friend, a neighbor, or just an acquaintance, Russians often bring a small gift. A box of chocolates, a cake or a toy for a child, maybe flowers. It’s not the gift, but the thought that counts. The Russians say: “Well, we just can’t visit someone empty-handed!”

 

 

 

cup-tea-spoonLeave a teaspoon in a cup of tea

In Soviet times, people joked that Russians drank tea with their right eye closed, so not to poke themselves in the eye with the protruding tea spoon. It’s a mystery why Russians do this. But a teacup with a spoon in it cools faster and apparently the tea tastes better…

 

 

 

new year in russiaCelebrate the New Year twice

Before 1918, Russians used the Julian calendar which was 13 days behind the Gregorian calendar adopted in Europe. Although Russia switched to the new calendar a long time ago, the New Year in the old style (surprisingly called the Old New Year) is still celebrated. And if you think about it for a minute, it makes perfect sense to have two New Years instead of one: Two feasts and two parties (although to be honest, Russians don’t give presents during Old New Year) and, of course, there are two chances to make a wish.

 

 

eating-ice-creamEat ice cream even in winter

The cold season is not an excuse to give up your favorite treat. Some ice cream kiosks are still open in Russian cities even when the temperature drops below zero. If you are afraid of getting sick, try mixing the ice cream with delicious Russian jam(varenie).

It will prevent your throat from getting too cold.

 

 

 

Work right up until the allotted deadline

Russians somehow manage to do everything at the last possible moment. They are slow starters but great finishers – this is a fact! On the one hand, it indicates a complete inability to plan ahead, on the other – a tremendous ability to finish the job.

There is an old anecdote: A student is asked:” How much time do you need to learn Chinese? “He replies: “When is the deadline?”

 

 

optimismMaintain optimism

The annual shutdown of hot water for a few days, cold summers (2017 especially!), the financial crisis…Russians tend to treat everything with optimism. They prepare pots of hot water, have endless sweaters, and patience in abundance.

Whatever doesn’t kill you makes you stronger – a positive mental attitude is key.

 

 

 

Source: www.rbth.com/arts/lifestyle/2017/08/08/6-russian-habits-you-should-adopt-asap_818786

15.01.2018
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