Elianys Echazábal, a Cuban content creator, has sparked a massive reaction on TikTok with her latest video, where she highlights several quirky habits and traditions typical in Cuban households. These practices are often born out of the necessity to reuse and make the most of every available resource.
"Let me know in the comments if you're Cuban and if you do any of these things," the young woman captioned her video, which quickly resonated with countless viewers both on the Island and abroad.
Throughout the video, Elianys showcases familiar items and routines: from folding and sealing a coffee packet with a clothespin to reusing glass jars to store oil behind the stove.
She also points out the nylon bags for rice, chicken, or sugar that are washed and saved for reuse, the empty bottles kept for "decoration," and the classic toothpaste tube squeezed until it's completely empty.
The video continues with more relatable scenes for many Cubans: the blackened pot from constant use for frying, soap scraps saved to be fused together, an empty bottle in the bathroom to mix shampoo with water for conservation, and recycled containers that end up storing sugar or salt.
One of the most commented moments was when she displayed a traditional coffee maker and notably mentioned that nowadays, the most essential thing in a Cuban home is "charcoal."
"Charcoal and kids, because that's how we cook here now," she remarked, clearly referencing the frequent blackouts and the energy crisis forcing many families to find alternative cooking methods.
With a lighthearted tone, Elianys managed to blend humor with reality, capturing the everyday practices of millions of Cubans and showcasing their resilience and adaptability amidst the ongoing shortages in the country.
Understanding Cuban Household Practices
What are some common Cuban household practices mentioned in the video?
The video mentions practices such as reusing glass jars for storage, washing and saving nylon bags, squeezing toothpaste tubes to the last drop, and using charcoal for cooking due to power outages.
Why do Cubans adopt these practices?
These habits stem from the need to make the most of limited resources, a necessity driven by the ongoing economic challenges and shortages in Cuba.
How does the video reflect Cuban resilience?
The video humorously portrays how Cubans adapt to scarcity by creatively reusing materials and finding alternative solutions, showcasing their resilience in the face of continuous shortages.