yom kippur essentials

customs
and traditions

Introspection, fasting, and prayer are the biggies, but don’t stop there. Here’s a list of other ideas to help make the most of your spiritual reset:

  • Some people abstain from anything to do with the body (showering, exercise, sex, wearing makeup, etc.). They also give up all other typical day-to-day comforts, like electricity, and driving. (It’s a little like strict Shabbat rules with a fast and a whole lot of praying.)
  • Light a yahrzeit candle (a candle that burns for 24 hours – you can get them at many grocery stores) or visit a cemetery to remember a loved one.
  • Do some good deeds (tzedakah). Just look around you. Help a neighbor, visit your grandma, help someone who is struggling, give money to a cause you’ve been meaning to support, adopt a dog if you’ve been thinking about it… you get the idea.
  • Worth repeating: Apologize. To friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, etc. for the things you’ve done, either intentionally or unintentionally, that were hurtful.
  • Plan to enjoy a break-the-fast meal with others. Most synagogues have one, or if that’s not your idea of fun, maybe organize a small dinner. The traditional meal is simple – often a light meal of dairy and pareve foods, such as kugel, bagels, eggs, salads, and whitefish and lox. The important part is to share food if you can and be with community. (Who do you know that might be alone and would enjoy some company?)

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