These beliefs can cause anxiety, palpitations and rise in blood pressure. The psychosocial factors can cause an increase in the adrenaline secretions adversely affecting your heart. Try to convince someone who is superstitious not to be and she may think you are ignorant or doomed. "Extreme cases need cognitive behaviour therapy and an actual exposure to the superstition in order to convince her, for instance, that nothing can go wrong even if a black cat crosses her path," adds Dr Cooper. There is nothing paranormal about prophecies. "If you believe that something is going to happen, you can make it happen."

Common Superstitions

>> Friday the 13th and hence the number 13 are unlucky.

>> Breaking a mirror causes bad luck.

>> Knocking on wood or 'keeping fingers crossed' brings good luck.

>> Carrying a lucky charm brings good luck.

>> Wearing the same dress for every important occasion will ensure luck.

>> Walking under a ladder brings bad luck.

>> If a crow sits on your windowsill, you will have a visitor.

>> If you ask someone where he or she is going, the purpose of his or her going will not be fulfilled.

Women VS Men

According to a survey, 51 per cent of women said that they were somewhat superstitious as against the 29 per cent of men.