“Those that can’t endure the bad will not live to see the good.”
~Jewish proverb
It’s rarely easy to be Jewish, and the present moment is no exception. Between global uncertainty and increasing antisemitism, a lot of us are trying to endure a dark time in hopes of seeing the bright side. It’s a very tough time be a Jewish parent or caregiver trying to raise the next generation of mensches and change-makers while coping with the stress.
Happily, we come from a tradition and culture of resilience and perseverance. The good news is that there are actions — seemingly small but incredibly powerful practices — that can make the chaos of the present moment feel a little less stressful and a bit easier to endure. The trick is to find the strategies that work for you and use them as often as you can. Here are eight ideas built on Jewish traditions, values, and history to get you going:
Start at the beginning
According to the Torah, God breathed life into the first humans, and breathing is a great way to get a grip when life seems overwhelming. Any time you notice your thoughts spiraling, your jaw clenching, or your muscles seizing, take a slow, deep breath. And then another one. And then as many more as you need to focus your thoughts and calm your body. Repeat as often as needed.
Practice shmirat haguf (guarding your body)
This is self-care rooted in ancient Jewish tradition. Whether you feel up to it like it or not, caring for your body is non-negotiable. We all know we need to prioritise sleep, exercise, and eating well, but it can be hard to know where to begin. So start small by moving your body whenever you can. If you can’t get out for a walk or bike ride, try stretching your shoulders, touching your toes, or turning on your favorite song and shaking your tuchus.
Be grateful
The Hebrew term for gratitude is hakarat hatov, or recognising the good. When you’re anxious, angry, scared, stressed, or overwhelmed, look for something good. If you can’t think of anything positive, start with the Shecheyanu. Traditionally, this Jewish blessing is said upon reaching a special moment or experiencing something for the first time. More broadly, it’s good to say any time you feel grateful to be alive, as this translation makes clear: “Blessed are You, the Lord our God, who has granted us life, sustained us, and enabled us to reach this moment.” If nothing else, at least you’ve made it this far, and that’s something to be thankful for.
Connect with your community
The challenges of life weren’t meant to be lived alone. That’s why so many Jewish practices — from celebrating to mourning — are designed to bring people together. And, as one of my favourite mentors used to remind me, we should never be scared alone. Whether you’re praying or playing, kvetching or kvelling, be sure to do it with your people.
Turn to Pirkei Avot
Pirkei Avot, known as “the ethics of the ancestors,” is a popular second-century compilation of moral teachings and maxims. In it, Rabbi Tarfon says, “It is not your responsibility to finish the work, but neither are you free to desist from it.” (Pirkei Avot 2:16) The next time you feel overloaded, remind yourself that you do not have to do it all. To continue the good work of repairing the world, everyone needs to rest and recharge – which brings us to the next piece of advice:
Take a break
From a short breather to an entire Shabbat, don’t forget to give yourself a break from, well, everything. Between work and kids and life, it can feel hard to find a minute to breathe, but you can do it. Gift yourself that all-too-rare full day off from the chaos of the news and errands and getting everything done. Even if you cannot let go of everything for an entire day, try picking one stressor to let go of — even for a few hours each week — and see what that feels like.
Be kind to yourself
Chesed, or kindness, is a core Jewish value, but sometimes we forget to treat ourselves with compassion. Each time we respond to our toughest moments with grace and forgiveness or talk to ourselves the way we would talk to a good friend, life feels less stressful, and it is easier to be kind to others.
Remember, we are resilient
Our history as a people, our stories, culture, and texts remind us: We endure. Or, to turn to the wisdom of King Solomon: gam zeh ya’avor, or “this too shall pass.”
No matter what it is, whether it’s joyful or terrible, it is not going to last forever. Be grateful for the good stuff and breathe your way through the rest of it.
More
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How does 2,000-Year-Old Jewish Advice Apply To Today’s Parenting?
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August 14, 2025