The Fear of Friday the 13th and Six More of Our Biggest Superstitions

Yep, it's Friday the 13th.  Even if you're not traditionally superstitious, the day puts us all a little on edge.  

And so do a few other superstitions.  Here's a quick rundown of some of the most prevalent.

1. If You Break A Mirror, Seven Years Of Bad Luck Will Follow - Why? A mirror not only contains a persons image, but also their soul. How to save yourself: After seven hours have passed, bury the pieces of the mirror in the moonlight.

2. Walking Under A Ladder Brings Bad Luck - Why? When leaning against a wall, a ladder forms a triangle that represents the holy trinity. When you walk underneath it, you insult god. How to save yourself: Spit through the ladder rungs three times.

3. Black Cats Bring Bad Luck - Why? One theory is that cats close association with Egyptian religion put many Christians on edge. Aside from that, cats are thought to be sly, mischievous animals. How to save yourself: Have the cat walk towards you, that’s good luck.

4. If You Sleep With Your Feet Towards A Door Someone Will Steal Your Soul - Why? Before being buried, dead folks are often put in this exact position. How to save yourself: Move your bed.

5. It’s Bad Luck To Open An Umbrella Inside - Why? When an umbrella is opened inside, it prevents the sun god from offering rays to us. How to save yourself: Don't let it rain in your house.

6. Spilling Salt - Why? In the past, salt was an expensive luxury and spilling it violated the good fortune and luck brought on by the salt. How to save yourself: Throw a pinch over your left shoulder and hit the devil square in the eye.

7. Friday The 13th Brings Bad Luck - Why? In the bible, Judas was the 13th guest to the Last Supper. Additionally, in Roman lore witches were believed to gather in groups of 12. The 13th member of their group? The devil. How to save yourself: You're on your own on this one. I'd sprinkle 4 leaf clovers everywhere and buy a lot of rabbit's feet.

Oh, and why 7 superstitions? Because 7 is traditionally the luckiest of all numbers, so why tempt fate if you don't have to.