A Time to Take a breath and take it all in
The Jewish holiday season is nearing its culmination with the joy-filled final day(s) of Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah.
Whenever you find yourself reading this post, I invite you now to take a pause before moving onto the next thing. In a culture that conditions us to go go go, it is radically countercultural and deeply liberating to take time away from that hamster wheel of constant activity. At its essence, this is what I believe Shemini Atzeret invites us to do.
On October 13, 2025, I lead the daily meditation sit with the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. You are invited to practice with me now through the recording of that practice which you can access here. May this be of benefit.
Thank you so much for reading and supporting this work. Wishing you many blessings in these final holiday days if you observe. Wishing us all blessing, nourishment and ease as the fall season unfolds.
Rabbi Lauren Tuchman 