Delicious Rosh Hashanah Simanim Ideas for Your Table
Rosh Hashanah is officially two weeks away. Can you taste the apples in honey yet? Honestly, for me, this time of year can be extremely daunting. The transition over the past few years of Rosh Hashana being a completely spiritual experience as a single woman to becoming more practical with making sure that all the food is cooked and that my kids needs are being met adds a different level of challenge. Last year, I decided I really wanted to inject more spirituality and realized I didn’t have to sacrifice so much of it — I could put it into what I was already doing.
Ruchi Koval on How to Feel More Connected to Prayer
A few weeks ago, I posted an Instagram story all about prayer. I asked if anyone else had trouble connecting to Hashem through this vehicle and so many said yes. Unfortunately, sometimes prayer can feel like an obligation we just have to check off our to-do lists versus a dedicated time to develop a relationship with G-d. I was determined to change that for myself and hopefully find someone who could inspire others in the process. When thinking of who to speak with about this, Ruchi Koval shot to the top of my mind.
7 Ways to Get More Into the Elul Spirit This Year
In Elul, there’s so much buzz surrounding spiritual and physical High Holiday prep that it’s easy to feel stuck. Sometimes when there’s too much swirling around in my brain, I just freeze and do nothing or generally have no idea where to start. Relatable? Consider this list your un-stuck guide to getting into the zone. Or, if you’re like, “Wait, what, it’s Elul?” use this article as a kickstart.
The Beauty and Power of Elul
Elul is one of those months that always seems to sneak up on me. Wasn’t Pesach, like, yesterday? So much has happened this year, yet it’s hard to believe we’re already facing a new one.
Tisha B’Av Reflections: Hashem, Let’s Go Home
On Tisha B’Av, there is a lot of pressure to feel sad. For some, this mourning comes naturally, but for those where it doesn’t, guilt can creep in and become the mainstay of the day when you’re trying so hard to get into the zone. This year, I banished the guilt.
Five Ways You Can Boost Your Business This Month
Four years ago, I started my own business — a media production company that later turned into a coaching service called Nail Your Media Interview through which I help business owners and authors promote their products, services or written work through media interviews. I used to view the summer as a time for vacation but, recently, I’ve been inspired by how much profit can actually come out of this “break” time.
10 Movies to Watch This Tisha B’Av
Tisha B’Av is a hard day. Full stop. We’re not eating or drinking, we’re atoning for all the past sins of the Jewish people and we’re attempting to show Hashem how desperately we want Moshiach. Some need to get through the day in bed in a quiet, dark room while others watch Holocaust films as a way of connecting with the utter hardships the Jewish people have endured throughout our long history.
6 of the Best Fasting Tips We’ve Learned From Experts…and Experience
The minute the Three Weeks begin, I start to get nervous for Tisha B’Av. I’m trying to get into the essence and meaning of the time, but also I’m just so scared about how I’ll make it through a long summer fast. Over the years, I’ve learned that preparation is key. While Hashem is in charge and determines the outcome, doing my hishtadlut (effort) physically can help me get through the day a bit easier. Here are some tips I’ve picked up.
Av 5781: Calling on Our Father
The month of Av is officially upon us. We begin it in a state of mourning with nine intense days that culminate in the 9th of Av, also known as Tisha B’Av. Tisha B’Av is the saddest day on the Jewish calendar. It’s hard to feel excitement about entering the month of Av when that’s what’s approaching, no?