Awareness - A Mindful Jewish Moment

Embrace Awareness: A Hasidic Journey with Cantor Kerith Spencer-Shapiro

Join me, Cantor Kerith Spencer-Shapiro, for a quick yet transformative mini-session on meditation inspired by Hasidic teachings!

In just 1.5 minutes, we’ll tap into the richness of Jewish mysticism, where awareness isn’t just a practice—it’s a pathway to the divine. Each moment is filled with holiness, and through mindful breathing and reflection, we can cultivate a deeper connection to ourselves and the world around us.

Let’s explore simple techniques that foster awareness and help you infuse joy and gratitude into your daily life.

Take a brief pause with me to awaken your spirit!

Transcript

The Baal Shem Tov teaches we are bound up in our thoughts. Wherever our thoughts are there we are. We might be standing in the synagogue to pray but our ideas fly to the ends of the earth drawn after our affairs. At that moment it is as if we are present at our business and not in the synagogue. Look with a spiritual soul-infused attention from where you are. Do not let your thoughts flee to other places distracting you, Scattering your thoughts. Rest your eyes relaxing body and breath. As you sit invite a sense of quiet into your mind and body. With curiosity and generosity bring awareness to the mind's state. Noting each thought as it passes. Looking from where you are without judgment at the business of the mind. As each thought arises inviting the mind as it flees to other places to return to the breath, To presence, To awareness.