Tu B’Shvat has been celebrated for millennia the “New Year of the Trees” and has been important to Jewish farmers and mystics alike. Instead of marking the occasion with a seder, we’ll come together via Zoom from wherever you can experience nature— whether it’s a hiking/walking trail, a city park, or even your backyard.
What to expect
In this Mindful Outdoor Experience, we’ll observe the world through some gentle movement, mindful breathing, and sensory exercises that help us connect to our local trees. Then, we’ll have some space for a silent meditation so you can tune into the sounds of nature. Afterwards, we’ll come back together for a sharing circle and group discussion about the Jewish traditions surrounding trees.
What you need
– A natural space where you can step away into the “more-than-human world” would be ideal, but maintaining safety and following the CDC guidelines about social distancing are the priority. There’s still so much to learn from the tree outside your building!
– A phone to connect to the Zoom call, headphones, and perhaps a portable battery pack if you have one
– Bundle up! There’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothes. If you usually avoid spending time outside during the winter, check out this video to help you layer appropriately. We’ll only be out for about 1-1.5 hours but this is a good habit to get into!
– Don’t forget your mask!
Meet your educator
Davinica Nemtzow (She/they) is Tribe 12’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Associate and leads our Shtetl Skills and LGBTQIA+ tribes. Originally from the Berkshires, Davinica is a certified Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide, community organizer, environmental artist, and avid homesteader. You’ll often find her nurturing her vegetable garden, transforming her home into a low-waste and plant-based space, or stopping to look at every interesting leaf she finds (aka all of them).
What is Shtetl Skills?
Shtetl Skills a series of monthly workshops that promote practical, ancestral, and sustainable skills rooted in Jewish traditions and land connection.
Accessibility: A sign language interpreter, live captioning, and advanced materials are available by request. The guided movements are gentle, but always optional. To aid us in accommodating these and other needs for you to fully participate in this event, please email info@tribe12.org or call us at (267) 652-0088 with at least three days notice.
