A Shabbat Under the Mango Trees
Shabbat under the mango trees—a simple yet magical evening of community, connection, and tradition. As we shared food under fairy lights, I was reminded that Shabbat isn’t about perfection, but about pausing, recharging, and finding home wherever we gather.
Terumah – What We Carry With Us
The Tabernacle wasn’t built to stay in one place—it was meant to move, just like us. As a traveler and minimalist, I’ve learned that creating sacred space isn’t about permanence, but about intention. From a travel menorah to a few treasured objects, the things I carry help me stay grounded and connected, no matter where I go. What do you carry with you to make a space feel like home?
Mishpatim: The Roadmap to Becoming Who You Want to Be
Mishpatim might seem like a long list of rules, but what if it's actually a roadmap? Judaism teaches that transformation doesn’t happen in a monastery or on a mountaintop—it happens through daily actions. The way we treat people, the choices we make, and the small acts of integrity shape who we become. Your actions aren’t just things you do—they’re who you are becoming.
When the Dance Feels Heavy: A Practice in Presence
October 7th haunts my ecstatic dance practice. But every Sunday, I show up—to move, to feel, to release, and to honor those who no longer can. Some days, the movement flows. Other days, like this one, it feels heavy and out of sync. In dance, as in life, the practice is the same: pause, breathe, and try again.
Bo: Judaism Is Not About Conversion
Judaism has never been about conversion. In Parashat Bo, God unleashes plague after plague—not to convince the Egyptians of His power, but to solidify the Israelites’ belief and identity. Unlike other religions/cultures, Judaism isn’t about making more Jews; it’s about making sure we never forget who we are.
Va'era, the Holocaust, and the Power of Jewish Questioning
In Parashah Va'era, Moses—one of our greatest leaders—doubts himself and questions God. And yet, instead of being punished, he is met with guidance. Judaism does not demand blind faith; it encourages questioning. As we approach International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we reflect on the difficult questions that have shaped our people. What does it mean to be Jewish after such horrors? What keeps us connected despite generations of adversity? Va’era reminds us that we don’t need certainty to move forward—only the courage to keep asking.
Wrestling with the Torah: Vayishlach’s Lessons
What does it mean to wrestle with identity, uncertainty, and faith? In this week’s parashah, Jacob’s transformation into Israel—'one who wrestles with God'—invites us into a legacy of questioning and growth. As we explore the layered, sometimes unsettling stories in Vayishlach, we uncover how wrestling with meaning keeps Jewish tradition alive and connects us to our shared name: Israel.
Not Religious, Just Deeply Jewish: Exploring Identity Beyond Belief
What does it mean to be proudly Jewish without being religious? In this blog post, I explore how Judaism is more than a religion—it's a culture, a heritage, and a source of spiritual connection that transcends time. Discover how Jewish identity can inspire pride, purpose, and belonging for secular Jews today.
Finding Jewish Connection: Lessons from Parashat Vayetze for Modern Wanderers
Parashat Vayetze explores Jacob’s journey of dreams, struggles, and the deep familial connections shaped by Rachel and Leah. As modern Jews living global or nontraditional lives, staying connected to Jewish identity can feel challenging. Discover how to embrace the richness of Jewish culture and sustain meaningful traditions, even when far from family or familiar rituals.
Vayetze: What Jacob’s Ladder Teaches Us About Personal Growth and Spirituality
What does Jacob’s ladder have to do with surfing, perfectionism, and personal growth? In Parashat Vayetze, Jacob’s dream of angels climbing and descending a ladder speaks to the nonlinear journey of life. Whether we’re moving up, sliding down, or standing still, there’s meaning to be found exactly where we are. Explore these timeless lessons and take a few journal prompts to reflect on your own path.
How to Make Big Decisions with Jewish Wisdom
Making big decisions can feel overwhelming, but Jewish wisdom offers timeless guidance. Explore how values like Shiv’im Panim LaTorah, Hitbodedut, Tikkun Olam, and Lech Lecha can help you approach life’s crossroads with clarity, courage, and intention. Learn practical exercises to trust your journey, find support, and embrace growth.
Standing Tall During Antisemitic Times: Building Strength through Knowledge and Identity
The rise in antisemitism today is deeply connected to historical shifts and ideological movements. As digital platforms amplify polarizing voices, nuanced discussions about Israel and Palestine are increasingly drowned out. In this post, I reflect on my own experiences at university, the evolution of the narrative, and how we, as Jews, can stand tall in the face of rising rhetoric and historical distortion.
Shaping Sacred Moments: How Jewish Rituals Can Transform Everyday Life and Fuel Personal Growth
Rituals are more than routines—they’re sacred moments that ground and connect us. From childhood holiday traditions to mindfulness practices as a traveler, I’ve discovered how rituals evolve to reflect who we are and what we value. In this post, learn how to transform everyday habits into intentional rituals that bring meaning, presence, and joy to your life, inspired by Jewish culture and beyond.
Lessons from Parashah Noach: Core Values for Intentional Living
In Parashah Noach, we read about the flood, a fresh start for humanity, and the importance of core values. Discover how this ancient story can inspire you to live more intentionally and align your choices with what truly matters. This post concludes with an practical and insightful exercise to define your own core values and create a path for conscious living.
The Power of Rest: How Shabbat and Nervous System Recovery Can Improve Your Well-Being
In Bereshit, the first chapter of the Torah, we learn that even God needed rest—a powerful reminder that we can’t pour from an empty cup. But rest isn’t just about physical downtime; it’s also about calming your nervous system. In today’s fast-paced world, balancing both physical rest and nervous system rest (shifting from fight-or-flight to rest-and-digest) is essential for recharging. Learn how these two types of rest can help you reclaim your energy, embrace your purpose, and show up better in the world.
What Does L’Chaim Really Mean? Bridging Jewish Identity and Personal Growth
L’chaim isn’t just a toast—it’s a powerful reminder to align the life we’re living with the life we’re meant to live. Explore the deeper meaning behind this timeless Jewish phrase and how it can inspire personal growth, purpose, and joy.