Three Weeks FAQs, answered.

Let's tackle some common questions that come  up during the 3 Weeks. You're allowed to cut   or to file your nails during the 3 Weeks.  Women are allowed to pluck their eyebrows,   and men are allowed to cut their mustache if it  gets in the way of their eating. When it comes to   playing instruments, if you're learning to play  an instrument and are not playing for pleasure,   then you're allowed to have lessons because  you don't derive pleasure from that playing.   And that is up until Rosh Chodesh. After Rosh  Chodesh, there are those who say you should not   play instruments at all. When it comes to getting  engaged, you're allowed to get engaged the entire   3 Weeks. Once Rosh Chodesh comes, then you  can't serve a proper meal to celebrate,   you can serve a little bit of cake and some  drinks. And finally, when it comes to swimming,   you are allowed to swim during the 3 weeks. Once  Rosh Chodesh comes, then we do not swim anymore.