Nature
Introduction
It’s summer, this Shabbat consider a unique experience in NATURE. The natural world can provide calm, peace, relaxation, and perspective. Just as Shabbat provides time for rest and rejuvenation, nature provides the place. Unplug and go play!
The beauty of creation is all around us, readily accessible by simply stepping out of our front doors. No matter where you’re located, you can likely find a nearby botanical garden, picnic spot, or park. Wherever you find yourself, consider taking a moment to breathe and gazing up at the stars. There’s something so peaceful about turning your eyes upwards rather than downwards, and nothing like a night sky to make you consider our whole universe.
If you are a OneTable host, we have several Nourishment options to choose from while planning your Shabbat in nature like freeze dried meals from Backpacker’s Pantry or supplies from REI, or L.L.Bean. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Ask your Field Manager or login or create an account to post a dinner yourself using #unplugged in the description!
Explore a little more
Interested in Tech Shabbat? Tiffany Shlain makes The case for a tech Shabbat in a too-connected world in the Boston Globe.
Rethinking your use of social media? Forbes offers 5 ways to rethink your relationship to social media and reclaim your time.
Love the idea of unplugging to play? The Guardian has noted that children spend only half as much time playing outside as their parents did.
Reflecting on your own routines and habits? The Los Angeles Times takes a look at habit formation in Opinion: How to kick your cellphone addiction—and other bad habits, too.
Looking for your next absorbing read? OneTable’s Nourishment options now include Adeena Sussman’s “Shabbat”, Alan Lew’s “This is Real and You are Completely Unprepared”, and Tiffany Shlain’s “24/6”.
Elul: Preparing for the High Holidays
Elul, the Hebrew month leading up to the High Holidays, begins this August and our Unplugged partners are offering some wonderful resources to help you prepare.
At the Well has created this Shabbat Guide for a Meaningful Elul, a unique resource to support you in laying the groundwork for a new year. This month is known as a time of teshuvah, which means returning to your highest self, your true path. It is a beautiful time to take stock of your life and make note of what you’re seeking to change in the year ahead.
The Institute for Jewish Spirituality is offering a free online class, Getting Real for a New Year, for those in their 20s and 30s. The text of this course will be Alan Lew’s “This is Real and You are Completely Unprepared,” which we are now also offering as a Nourishment option!
Taking place August 13 – September 22, it will be an opportunity to share in ongoing Jewish spiritual practice with live virtual sessions, a WhatsApp discussion group, and the option to learn and practice with a chevrutah, or study partner.
Get Cooking!
Picnics, BBQs, dining al fresco on the balcony or patio—summer is the perfect time to combine food and the great outdoors. The Jewish Food Society has selected an amazing recipe for those looking to get cooking this week: Peter Hoffman’s mother’s German potato salad. Peter is a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement on the East Coast and the former chef-owner of the beloved Savoy restaurant in Soho. Loaded with herbs and splashed with vinegar, this recipe was an essential part of the family’s summer menu and is the perfect addition to any picnic.
For more summer recipes from Peter, and to read his family story, visit jewishfoodsociety.org.