By Ziva Swire, MHWOW Program Manager
When quarantine first started and we all scrambled to find new ways to occupy our time, I gave into the homemade bread cliché but let me tell you, it was totally worth the hype. It forced me to slow down and focus on one task. At the end of each bake, I basked in the lovely smell of bread coming from my kitchen and that first crunchy bite was so worth it. Starting, working on, and then finishing a project that I created with my own two hands was incredibly satisfying and a great way to center myself.
As the pandemic rages on, a close election comes to a close, and social justice issues boil to the surface, it’s clear this year has been tough for us all. No matter where you are, know that you’re not alone. What do you need to do for yourself to keep calm in the chaos? Here are some more specific things you can do to take care of yourself.
Focus on your mental health
We all know that building Jewish community can be its own full-time job at times so as a leader in your community, you need to take care of yourself in order to have the capacity to serve others. We’ve compiled a list of mental health resources for you to explore as well as how to have conversations with others about mental wellbeing.
Read a good book or watch your favorite show
Cozying up on the couch wrapped in a blanket is one of the best feelings in the world. Pair it with a cup of tea and a book or your favorite show and it’s going to feel like your heart is getting a hug. Check out this list for the best books of 2020 so far to find one that sounds good to you. For binge-worthy tv show recommendations, take a look at Buzzfeed’s picks.
Move your body
At the risk of sounding like your doctor, getting up and exercising can be a great way to boost those serotonin levels. Staying active will help you release anxiety and stress and manage your mood. Get out in nature, if possible, as the sunshine and fresh air will also do you good. If a walk or run around the neighborhood isn’t accessible to you, a simple 10-minute morning stretch or a cardio dance workout at home might be just the thing.
Prayer
Prayer can come in many forms. Many synagogues have embraced virtual Shabbat services and if a temple community doesn’t exactly feel right to you, a lot of Jewish educators have turned to social media to create a congregation of sorts. Rabbi Sandra regularly streams morning prayers and songs on her Instagram page.
Connect with your Judaism in new ways
There has never been a better time to explore your personal Jewish identity in unconventional ways. For when I’m feeling reflective, I’ve been loving HeyAlma’s series, Voice Notes of Hope, where rabbis record voice notes of hope and connect it to themes or teachings in Judaism. When I’m wanting something lighter, Arielle Kaplan’s “And G-d Was Like…” YouTube channel is a fun and relatable way to hear about the weekly Torah portion that I haven’t thought about since Hebrew School.
I was nervous the first time that I mixed together the flour, water, yeast, and salt to make my first loaf of bread. Something so simple felt scary but when I dove in, I realized there was nothing to be afraid of. Trying new things may feel overwhelming, but there’s never been a more perfect time to be kind to yourself and go for it. Whether it’s a workout class or a good cry during a therapy session, I encourage you to find something that speaks to you as a way to keep calm these days. Wishing you peace and rest.
