How To Stay Connected During Social Distancing
By Lilith Cohen
There’s this beautiful Jewish concept of wholeness, called shleimut.
In life, we experience all parts of humanity - the highs, the lows, and everything in between. When we hold space for all and accept both the celebrations and the struggles, this is shleimut in action. It’s hard to find that feeling, but it’s worth cultivating, especially during this time of uncertainty.
As we find ourselves forced into social distancing with the Corona pandemic, seeking creative ways to forge spiritual connections can help us find a sense of shleimut. When we do this work together, the path to healing and wholeness becomes much more attainable for all.
Here are some sweet shleimut-y things you can do during these trying times:
1. Breath with intention
In Jewish tradition, breath and soul link the physical and the spiritual realms. During these stressful times, our breath can help ground and calm our nerves.
The word neshamah means breath, but it includes both the human and divine breath. When we view our breath as a connector to the divine, it helps us relate more deeply with our intention. By taking the time to take deep breaths - even if it’s just 3 deep breaths - we can renew our connection.
2. Set a Kavanah aka intention for yourself during this time
Despite what’s happening around you, what promise do you want to manifest? It’s a challenging time, but we have the power to re-center and choose what we do want to create within ourselves.
Remind yourself of this word - Kavanah - or write it on a post-it to hang on your wall. Offer it as a prayer by saying it out loud. If you’re craving a more embodied option, you can also burn rose petals, spices, or incense to ritualize your Kavanah.
3. Spread digital acts of kindness
Many people are feeling fearful now, but we still have the power to show love, even from afar. Whether it’s a smile of acknowledgment, a call, a text, a loving reminder, or a social share - each little thing can make a difference.
When it comes to tzedakah (charity) we are called to extend our hand to those in need. Offer a call to someone who may be living alone, or donate to those who may not have food or shelter.
4. Use shema to deepen your relationships
Jewish wisdom puts a big emphasis on the importance of shema (listening). It helps us deepen our ability to listen to ourselves, to our community, and to the divine.
Take this time to go deeper with those who are close to you at this time. Ask how they are feeling, and really listen. We all could use a little extra space for support at this time.
5. Where do you need to set boundaries?
Are you obsessively checking the news and social updates? Ask yourself seriously: is this serving me? Work to find a good balance that can help you stay in the know and uplifted instead of stressing you out. Now is the perfect time to balance. Take time to disconnect from media and reconnect with your body, your spirituality, and your community.
6. What brings you feelings of joy?
Whether, cooking a delicious meal, exercising, belting your favorite tune, putting on makeup, or FaceTiming a friend, remember to hold moments of joy. Furthermore, make sure to proactively create more moments of joy for yourself as often as possible!
7. Dance like nobody's watching
The Jewish people have been dancing for thousands of years (most of us have danced the Hora to Hava Nagilah!). Dance has always been an important ritual for sparking joy and feelings of celebration. Even if you find yourself WFH (working from home), turn on your favorite song and dance your heart out. Feel like inviting others? FaceTime with your loved ones and invite them to do a virtual dance-off! Moving your body and finding moments of joy all in one?! Yes, please!
8. Anoint yourself
Ancient Israelites used essential oils for healing, beauty, and rituals. After a long day of WFH, treat yourself to a bath and anoint yourself like our Biblical Babe, Queen Esther!
9. Create a virtual Well Circle
We need each other more now more than ever. Well Circles are based on the Jewish ritual of Rosh Chodesh, gatherings during the new moon. For women, and by women, they give us the power to create time to renew, reflect, and set intentions for the themes of each month. Invite your crew to join in a monthly meetup!
While we live in uncertain times, what is certain, is that we can take action to heal, support, and connect with each other. We can give love to everything, and work on reacting first from a place of compassion. In this moment, we could all use a little chesad - a foundational concept that embodies loving-kindness.
With love, together we can get through this by connecting and supporting each other.