Send us a text If you are like me, a secular Jew who is starting to observe mitzvahs, this episode is for you! In Shabbat 101, you will hear about the primary steps to observing Shabbat - candle lighting, kiddush, hand washing and challah - and hopefully you will learn from my mistakes! I share very interesting historical and traditional information, as well, and explanation for why we observe commandments the way we do. Mentions: Mitzvahs: Candle lighting, kiddush, hand washing, ...

Send us a text In the past, I attended synagogue services and events only on High Holidays, thinking that those were the only special days in the Jewish calendar. But now that I am becoming more and more observant, I am learning that there are many more important dates in Jewish tradition that I had no idea about. One of them is TishaB'av, which is considered the saddest day for Jews. This year, I decided that it was essential I learn more about this holy day (not holiday). In this epis...

Send us a text I attended a very interesting book signing of Rabbi Levi Y. Shmotkin, who recently edited and published "Letters for Life: Guidance for Emotional Wellness from the Lubavitcher Rebbe". Shmotkin spoke on various topics, presenting examples from individuals he himself interviewed that had received letters from the Rebbe. Shmotkin spent years reading and researching the Rebbe’s correspondence and archives. The common denominator he identified was the Rebbe’s advice and teach...

Send us a text Every time I volunteer at my synagogue, I learn a ton. This time was not exception. I helped the summer camp put on a kids play, which turned out to be a highly educational and gratifying experience for me. Mentions: Baruch Hashem - B''H Frozen - Disney movie Support the show

Send us a text After promising myself that I would not become a pet owner because family life is already hectic enough, and also to avoid heartbreak due to the eventual pet's illness and death (my in law's pet had recently passed away), my husband and I gave into our son's plea for a dog. Even though we agreed on a specific breed and size, we ended up re-homing a dog that was nothing like we what we had envisioned or hoped for. Such is the irony of life! In this episode, I also share in...

Send us a text In this episode, I recount my visit to one of the most magical, spiritual, holy places in the world - the Ohel - the burial site of the Rebbe in Queens, New York. You will find out how to prepare for a visit, what to expect and what to do step-by-step once you get there, as well as what makes this place a holy site for Jews all over the world. You don't have to be Jewish to visit the Ohel, which is open 24/7 and welcomes people regardless of their religion and from all wa...

Send us a text The adventure continues to Norway. Hear about my experience as a Jew in Bergen and Oslo, as well as Norway's natural beauty, and peculiar art scene. Mentions: Bergen - port city Fjords - long, narrow, deep inlets of the sea with steep sides formed by glacial erosion Mount Floyen in Bergen and the Troll Forest Oslo - capital Quote by the Rebbe - Menachem Mendel Schneerson Support the show

Send us a text The Jewish adventure continues in Sweden. In this episode, I recount my family's visit to the Great Synagogue of Stockholm and the Jewish museum. I comment on the liberal nature of Stockholm's Jewish community and express my opinion on the importance of tradition, which is what keeps the Jews strong and able to withstand any challenges. Mentions: The Great Synagogue of Stockholm Aron Isak - a German seal engraver, was the first Jewish person to receive permiss...

Send us a text In this episode, I recount my family's "Jewish" adventure in Copenhagen, Denmark. From the synagogue to a Chabad to a kosher restaurant, I give you my take on what it's like to be Jewish in a very liberal European country. Mentions: Great Synagogue of Copenhagen Chabad of Denmark Kosher restaurant "Taim" Quote by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov Support the show

Send us a text Have you ever attended a Bar or Bat Mitzvah ceremony? If not, in this episode, you will learn all about this coming-of-age ritual in Judaism: what it means, why it's important, how it transpires, what to give as a gift and more! Mentions: Quote by Rabbi Jonathan Sacks Support the show

Send us a text In this last episode of Season 5, I share with you an excerpt from my conversation with an incredible human being, someone who, despite her paralysis from the waist down, limited vision and hearing, continues to live life with utmost joy, inspiring everyone around her to be thankful for our every breath and our opportunities to love and to serve others. Her story of resilience and faith is so motivating that I hope you will share it with others. My guest is dancer, singer, arti...

Send us a text In this episode, I recount the details of two Shavuot events that I attended this year. I explain the holiday's significance and traditions. Shavuot is not only a time for spiritual growth, but also it is a time for families and communities to come together, reaffirming their commitment to Jewish learning, while celebrating the spiritual connection with G-d. Mentions: Chabad.org Poem by Rick Lupert Support the show

Send us a text Listen to my interview with founder and director of the Mitsui Collective Yoshi Silverstein. In this inspiring episode, you will learn about Jewish embodiment, the diversity of the Jewish people, and why Judaism is so powerful in nourishing our body and soul, as well as activating our potential. mentions: Mitsui Collective: www.mitsuicollective.org Ido Portal - a movement and fitness teacher who founded the "Movement Culture" Shai Faran - an Israeli dancer, teacher and ch...

Send us a text When our ego leads the way, it's easy to see the flaws in other people. The Torah clearly states to “judge every human being meritoriously.” How can we train ourselves to think positively and see the good in people? I answer this and other spiritual questions in this episode. Mentions: Story "The Blind Chazzan" from Theyeshiva.net My contact information: love2healpod@gmail.com Instagram and TikTok - lovetohealpodcast Support the show

Send us a text Visiting the cemetery to pay respects to a friend that recently passed away made me realize how much important and interesting information there is about Jewish burial customs. In this episode, I go over the basics of what any person should know when visiting a Jewish cemetery. In addition, I talk about the journey of the soul after burial. Mentions: Poem “Do Not Stand At My Grave And Weep” by Mary Elizabeth Frye Support the show

Send us a text In this episode, I recount my experience of Havdalah with PJ Library. I enjoyed this restorative evening designed for mothers to explore Jewish embodiment, which would help us to more fully align our actions with our intentions, better understand ourselves and others, and build communities of wholeness and belonging. The movement program was led by the creator of the Mitsui method, who explained to us that Jewish Embodiment is both rooted in and an expression of Jewish wisdom, ...

Send us a text In a world where sex sells, I am advocating for modesty! In Judaism, the concept of modesty extends well beyond dress code. Find out how this concept can improve your relationships, how you can contribute to a more respectful and harmonious society, and live a life that is meaningful and purposeful. Mentions: Author Louise Hay Rabbi Manis Friedman Support the show

Send us a text In Judaism, learning and doing are deeply interconnected. The tradition emphasizes that study should lead to meaningful action, making "learning" a dynamic process that involves both intellectual exploration and practical application. This is why I jump at every learning opportunity and accept every invitation from our rabbi and rebbetzin. In this episode, I share my family's experience of Moshiach Seudah - a celebration to conclude Passover, which took place at our rabbi's hom...

Send us a text My husband and I were invited to a Passover Seder at our rabbi's house. In this episode, together we share our first experience of a real seder, which turned out to be not only meaningful and memorable, but also lots of fun!

Send us a text I recently read in Tanya that prayers and blessings in Judaism must be audible. The explanation for this requirement was so intriguing to me that it led me to further research. This episode is full of Kabbalistic mysticism, Jewish tradition and inspiration. I hope it inspires you to explore the power of prayer! Mentions: The Daily Study App Shtisel - TV series Kabbalah - a Jewish mystical tradition that involves esoteric teachings and practices Alter Rebbe - Shneur Zalman...