Reframing Mental Health: Embracing Spiritual Gifts and Superpowers

By Mindy Rubenstein Judaism teaches us that every soul is created with a unique purpose, and even our struggles are part of that divine plan. The Zohar reminds us, “There is no light except that which comes out of darkness” (Zohar 2:51a). When we look at conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder (BPD), … Continue reading Reframing Mental Health: Embracing Spiritual Gifts and Superpowers

When the Pain Feels Overwhelming: Finding Real Ways to Cope

By Mindy Rubenstein Photo: Me last year praying with other women at the burial site of Mama Rachel. Read that article here: Jewish Women Today marks the yahrtzeit, or anniversary, of Rachel Imeinu’s passing. Rachel, our mother, carried her own profound pain, longing, and unfulfilled love, yet she’s remembered for her boundless compassion, still advocating … Continue reading When the Pain Feels Overwhelming: Finding Real Ways to Cope

Rosh Hashanah: We Don’t Have to Struggle Alone

By Mindy Rubenstein It’s Time to Be Honest with Ourselves and Others As Rosh Hashanah approaches, it’s a time for reflection, renewal, and teshuva—a return to our authentic selves. But this process can uncover emotions we often push aside. Many of us hide our struggles, even from ourselves, masking our pain with a smile and … Continue reading Rosh Hashanah: We Don’t Have to Struggle Alone

Tree of Life & Forest Bathing

I love trees. They literally have the power to heal us. Today I wasn't feeling so great. So I took my laptop outside and worked at a table next to a tree. I leaned against it, felt its rough bark, noticed the shape of its leaves. I sat out there for hours, taking in the … Continue reading Tree of Life & Forest Bathing

Our Jewish Mission

When our plane landed in Eretz Yisrael five months ago, it was my first time ever being physically in this land. But it was a homecoming for my soul. My grandparents, Adeline and William, visited here a few decades ago. Each week I use the green-glass Shabbat candlesticks they bought in Jerusalem, along with the silver … Continue reading Our Jewish Mission

Inner darkness leads to greater light on the other side

It is the new Jewish month of Shevat, and the sun is setting here in Eretz Yisrael as my son modge-podges a Star Wars puzzle he put together over Shabbat. I can smell glue fumes so I open the windows. Now I can hear birds singing quietly in the trees surrounding my house. And it’s … Continue reading Inner darkness leads to greater light on the other side

O my soul, why are you in turmoil within me?

After Chanukah and our trip to Jerusalem, I felt a dip in spirituality and my overall mood. And that’s okay. I don’t have anything profound to share, nor am I looking for advice. It’s been a decades-long journey of syncing my mind, body and soul. And I usually try to seek G-d, and light, even … Continue reading O my soul, why are you in turmoil within me?

Full Moon Feelings in Eretz Yisrael

Why can't I just feel "good"? I keep resisting whatever this is inside. The uneasiness is hard to explain. Like I'm uncomfortable within my body, here in this place. What is this place? It's not where I'm meant to be. Not really, anyway. My soul knows; it's not natural. But I -- like other souls … Continue reading Full Moon Feelings in Eretz Yisrael