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We’re at the beginning of fall where school and life is back in full swing after what was hopefully a relaxing summer.
The fall also signals the beginning of the Jewish High Holidays—and whether you celebrate or not, we at Seven Circles think there’s lessons to be taken from the end (and beginning) of the Jewish calendar.
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, is loaded with symbols. Round challah with raisins, apples and honey, pomegranate—all to symbolize the cyclical nature of the year and to fill the coming time with sweetness and goodness.
Yom Kippur, the Jewish day of atonement, is a time to reflect on the past year and set an intention to do better in the upcoming days.
So with that in mind, let us offer a continuation of our last blog post and give you some tips for resetting and refreshing as you get into the swing of fall:
Do a closet clean out—This might seem like a spring activity, but if you’re someone who keeps your seasonal clothes put away when not in use, the cooler weather is a good time to look at what you have and decide on what you can part with. here are plenty of organizations for clothing donation, from mutual aid groups to domestic violence shelters.
Spend time outside—The weather is changing and like it or not, winter will be here soon. Take advantage of the milder temps and hang out with the people you love in a park, go apple or pumpkin picking, or go for a mid-day stroll for some fresh air.
Make a “fun” to-do list—This isn’t a list of personal or professional goals in the name of self-improvement—it’s an opportunity to brainstorm things you’ve been wanting to do just for the joy of it! Go back to that restaurant to taste that other dish, try a craft, do something for yourself (and maybe with your partner) that you’ve been thinking about doing for a while.
Reconnect—With yourself, with your partner, with your community. If you live in a major city like Chicago, there are so many ways to simply exist among your neighbors. Check out free festivals, explore greenspace, or visit that museum.
Finish (or revisit)Seven Circles! If you haven’t finished the program, jump back in!
No matter what you do, we wish you a healthy and sweet start to the fall!
Author: Maris Rosenfeld, Community Outreach and Education Coordinator. She is going to attempt to make an apple challah for the first time for Rosh Hashanah—wishher luck!
