עקידת יצחק is a narrative that has profound resonance within Jewish tradition. As we prepare for the Yamim Noraim, this tale is a centerpiece in our Tefillot. It’s a complicated story, fraught with tension and moral ambiguity: Avraham, at the command of Hashem, prepares to sacrifice his son Yitzchak. This isn’t just a story for […]
The Emotional and Psychological Complexity of Hashem as a “Warrior” in the Machzor As the Yamim Noraim approach and we pull out our Machzors for another year, the complexities of our relationship with Hashem often come to the forefront. One image that can elicit strong feelings is that of viewing Hashem as a Warrior, or […]
Read More… from G-d the Warrior Vs. G-d the Peacemaker: Who’s Throwing Spears Now?
So, you’ve got your bags packed, your playlist curated, and your mind set on adventure. Whether traveling to a tropical paradise or a bustling city, the world is your playground. But let’s not forget our slightly clingy plus-one: mental health. The good news? Exploring the globe with neurosis or depression doesn’t have to be a […]
My Strategy to Cope with Existential Triggers This Rosh Hashanah The Ten-Day Crunch and the Machzor’s Existential Question The clock is ticking, and the sense of urgency is undeniable. With only ten days remaining until Rosh Hashanah, I am surrounded in a complex blend of spiritual contemplation and practical preparations. The list of seasonal essentials […]
Read More… from Navigating the Book of Life: My Strategy to Cope
Introduction “Take me out to the ballgame, take me out with the crowd!” Ah, how these lyrics stir memories of cheering crowds, buzzing excitement, and a shared spirit of camaraderie. Yet, beneath the bright lights of the stadium, we’re reminded that life – much like a ballgame – is a team sport, a game where […]
Mental wellness refers to a state of emotional and psychological well-being, where an individual is able to cope with the normal stresses of life, work productively, maintain positive relationships, and make meaningful contributions to their community. It encompasses factors such as emotional resilience, self-esteem, and the ability to manage and navigate various life challenges effectively. […]
Read More… from Self-Harm: The Invisible Foe – Now You See Me, Now You Don’t!
You know that feeling when you’re deep in a discussion about judicial reform, or any other major social change, and you suddenly realize you’re really, really stressed? Well, you’re not alone. It turns out that debating serious issues can, ironically, be a bit like juggling live porcupines: prickly, challenging, and a potential source of trauma. […]
Read More… from Judicial Reform and Trauma: What’s the Connection?
Introduction Calling one and all – Moms, dads, siblings, relatives, friends, madrichim, rabbis, teachers, anyone with ears to lend -, we’re talking about something big today, something that needs all of us to chip in: depression. Whether you’ve been down this road or just stepped up to the plate, it’s time to lace up and […]
Every person I’ve met with a mental illness seems to be a fascinating puzzle of uniqueness. It’s incredible how they can surprise you with their hidden battles, like having OCD or facing the darkness of contemplating suicide. It’s like they have this hidden side, but instead of saving the world, they’re simply trying to make […]
Read More… from Depression: The Rollercoaster Ride That Never Goes Up
Imagine yourself as an intrepid traveler, venturing into unexplored territories of the mind. Today, we’re embarking on a unique journey that will take us to two contrasting cities: Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) City and Trauma Town. Just like the bustling streets of Tel Aviv and the complex history of Jerusalem, these cities hold fascinating stories […]
Read More… from A Tale of Two Cities: Navigating the Landscapes of BPD and Trauma