Tu B’Shvat, also called the New Year for the Trees, is a Jewish holiday focused on nature and humankind’s stewardship of Earth, and serves as a time to reflect on personal growth and practice gratitude by appreciating the things in our lives we so often take for granted.
Like all living things, we are constantly growing and bettering ourselves. Just as we care for the trees, we also must care for ourselves. Just as we water a garden, we must nourish ourselves. When used as part of our own self-care, gratitude can play a large role in healing, both physically and mentally.
A Tu B'shvat Themed Guided Meditation: Just as we water a garden, we must also nourish ourselves. Let’s take some time to step into nature, connect with the earth and plant the seeds of our own mental wellness.
All fruit trees need to go through a process of waiting and redemption called “Orlah.” On the surface, this long and complicated process may seem tedious and unnecessary. But if you dig a bit deeper, the law of Orlah offers us a lesson about the importance of patience in growth.
Given the reality of climate change and its accompanying consequences on our collective mental health, we need to start thinking about how we can make sure our mental health is stable as we try to figure out how to save the world at large.
Climate change has severe implications on our safety and mental health, but to rectify the climate will require action, and that can feel overwhelming. Thankfully, the Talmud offers a model for self-empowerment in our fight against forces as seemingly unstoppable as nature.
Trees are the tools used to teach the first human beings to feel gratitude for the world around them. Thinking about what you're grateful for helps you nurture the gratitude in your life and plant your own gratitude tree!
Tu B’Shvat can help us gain insight into living and personal growth. It is also the perfect time to practice gratitude and appreciate what we so often take for granted.
February is Eating Disorders and Body Image Awareness Month. It is a time when we call attention to people who are struggling with eating and body image-related challenges and a time to celebrate all people. Tu B'Shvat and body-positivity are connected in Jewish tradition.