sneezing traditions around the world

[AsylumFlower]

I'm sure something like this has been shared here before, but this is pretty great.

http://www.netlaputa.ne.jp/~tokyo3/e/sneeze_e.html

[ukrsneeze]

In Russia and Ukraine we say

Bud' zdorov - be healthy

[Sawyer]

I really enjoyed reading this!

The Americans care about health and well being of somebody else, in many cases complete strangers, so do they still follow this custom even in Japan? Or do they just forget about it since "When in Tokyo (Rome), do as the Tokyoites (Romans) do"? I asked an American, "Do you say 'Bless you!' when you hear sneezing in Japan?" The response was "It depends on the TPO. If it is a place where I will not be frowned upon, I will go ahead and say without any reserves; however, if the occasion does not call for it I just mumble to myself, or say it in my heart."

This is so, so cute.

A Korean acquaintance shared with me their version. The following is our conversation on the topic.

"In Korea, sneeze is expressed by the onomatopoeic 'eichi''. If somebody happens to sneeze, you sai 'eichi'." "Why is it so?" "I am not really sure.""If you hear a stranger sneeze aboard a train, do you say 'eichi' to the person?" "No. You only say it to people you are close with."

Hahaha! I love this. Imagine if you sneezed and someone just said "achoo" to you in response. Jesus Christ!!!