Four Weeks of Elul 5767
Week Four: Physical Selves

September 6, 2007

This past summer, Sue and I started a program at the JCC called "Body For Life." The program consists of a 12 week tightly regimented program of diet and exercise. For six days a week, we switch off between daily aerobic exercise and weight training, while carefully monitoring our what we eat. On the seventh day (Shabbat, of course!) we can eat whatever we want and refrain from exercising.

Since this is the last week of Elul I have to confess that, while I have not been 100% faithful to the program (especially the diet part), I have noticed a marked difference in how I feel. It's amazing how just a few small changes in our daily routine coupled with a commitment to an ongoing program of exercise and health awareness can reshape the way in which we understand and appreciate physical fitness.

Most of us know that certain behaviors and activities are harmful or not conducive to physical fitness, yet we fail to find the energy or initiative to act in a way that promotes physical health and wellness. Our nation seems to be doing two opposite things simultaneously: We are obsessed with body image and yet we have the highest rates of obesity in the world. Maybe we feel guilty about our lack of exercise and poor diet, so we eat in order to assuage our guilt.....

Truth be told, our failures in the past should not be seen as an excuse for not trying to improve ourselves in the present. It is never too late to start healthy habits. During the past 3 weeks we have focused on our spiritual selves, our relationships, and our responsibility to community. This week, I want us to be very much aware of our physical selves. If we do not take care of our bodies, then we cannot perform Tikkun Olam - the repairing of our world. Our bodies are holy. The torah teaches that we are created B'tzelem Elohim - in the image of God. In this light, taking care of our bodies is a sacred task. As such - I offer the following questions:

1. Have I taken care of my body through diet and exercise?

2. Have I prepared medical directives that are clear and unambiguous stating my desires for illness and end-of-life issues?

3. Have I done all that I could to comfort those around me who are affected by illness - have I performed the mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim - visiting the sick?

4. Have I truly appreciated the beauty of the mountains that surround me?

5. How much stress is in my life? Is it affecting the way I live my life?

6. What bad habits have I cultivated that I need to change?

7. What positive habits should I trying to incorporate into my daily routine?

Again, these questions are in no way complete. I'm sure that you have many others that can be asked and answered. I welcome your comments and suggestions. I can be reached by phone (505-883-1818) or e-mail ().  These questions will also be available in hard copy at the Temple Office. If you know of anyone else who might want to receive these lists, contact our list administrator, Shelly Liebman at .

I look forward to seeing you at Selichot services at B'nai Israel this Saturday night as well as at High Holy Day services next week.

Sue, Elana and Ethan join me in wishing you L'shanah Tovah Tikateyvu - May you be inscribed for blessing in the New Year.