The 15^th of the Hebrew month Shevat is entirely dedicated to nature, the earth, trees for flowering and for food.

The almond tree is indeed the symbol of the holiday because it is the first to bloom with its fragrant, white-pink blossoms. This is a day of gratitude for our planet earth and the goodness that nourishes us in life.

I was born on Tu Bishvat, and perhaps that is why my connection to this day is so special. Just like nature seems to feel special in early Spring, I also feel special and blessed on my birthday. This feeling is so healthy. It helps me to be better for the world. Therefore, it would be a shame to reduce it to just one day out of the year. On the contrary, it is important to nurture it and transform nature into something beneficial all the time. For this to happen, we must move ourselves in this direction. And sometimes a small step is enough to reorient and gain momentum. Most of us live on the fast lane or at least the busy lane – at work, with family, friends, classes, meals and lots of pressure. So much so that sometimes we don’t even find a moment to take a deep breath and look out the window.

A group of almond trees in full bloom at this time of year. Photo: Flash90

Since childhood, I have been drawn to nature. I loved watching the rain fall, jumping in puddles, reaching up to a tree to pick its fruit and take a bite. That’s the ultimate for me. And the blooming of trees and flowers still intoxicates me. Over the years, I have even learned to recognize the moments when my body seeks nature. And from my experience, I believe that in order to bring balance to our busy and challenging modern life, we must leave time for being in nature. Not as an incidental occurrence but as a regular way of life.

For starters, go out for even just 10 minutes a day to breathe fresh air and clear your head. Or as I mentioned, even sit by the window for a few moments to absorb the sights of nature and listen to the sounds that come from it, such as birds chirping, wind whispering, and leaves rustling. At some point the desire to connect with nature will increase, and then it can really reach the point of needing to feel the earth in your hands.

Holding soil in our palm feels like something that has passed away from the world, because who has time? But think about how important it is. Without earth, there would be no food, no growth. And just as it affects the outer world, so too the inner. Dealing with the earth helps us to develop in a balanced and healthy way. Therefore, I propose here as part of my “I believe” a light engagement in life with earth.

• This can come in the form of planting in flower pots, or even cultivating a small vegetable garden. There are so many community garden projects in cities today.
• It can also come through dealing with other materials such as clay, wool, fabrics, and anything that feels natural.

Planting trees during the Jewish holiday Tu Bishvat. Photo by Yonatan Sindel/Flash90.

This engagement improves our quality of life and awakens all the senses. And when the senses are awake, we live the moment to the fullest and feel powerfully connected to the Creator. You might argue that it requires too much effort. Do it as an experiment, and you just may change your mind.

Try it and see.

Happy Tu Bishvat.

Want more news from Israel?
Click Here to sign up for our FREE daily email updates