Power Up! (Gila Ross)

Less than 5 minutes long and jam packed with goodies!! How can you see straight through to the essence of a person and the lowdown on compromising!! (Avot 4:8-9)

This is one to listen to!! Fascinating insights and stories about the power of love, peace & bringing out the best in ourselves and others. Subscribe to join The Perek Project! (Avot 1:12-13)

If you're going to listen to one episode, this is it! I talk to Beatie Deutsch, Israeli National Marathon Champion and elite athlete, who has made waves as an Orthodox mom who races in modest clothing - with a head covering and wearing a skirt. She talks about how dressing modestly may slow her timing down and why she chooses to race in modest clothing even though her timing is so important - after all what can possibly be more important than winning? 

Jacob asks his son Joseph to give him true kindness. Sometimes we're kind for ulterior motives. How do we cultivate true kindness and ensure we have no ulterior motives? (Vayechi)

While we may think of G-d as the big guy in the sky waiting and watching over us, what is the real picture? A fascinating view that we learn from some technical details listed in the Torah. (Avot 5:2-3)

Woah! What a strange story of a floating skull 😳 but wait, there is a story behind the story! Come along as we examine different pathways to happiness.

What gives them a right to discuss Ethics? And 3 relevant tools for developing potential. (Avot 1:1)

Whats the point in counting the days of the Omer? And perhaps more importantly why do we need to know? Listen for a fascinating insight into why we lose motivation

Human nature is such that people find it difficult to give people the respect they deserve. Listen to this brilliant piece of advice from a master of respect. And is ignorance bliss or is it a failing? (Avot 4:15-16)

When my daughter heard the subject she turned up her nose 🤪 but even she was impressed by how important and relevant the two takeaways are! (Avot 5:7)

The inspiring story of Esther's granddaughter teaches us how to become a magnet for joy.

Try this powerful mindset to help us make the right decisions, both as an individual and also how to make teams function successfully! (Avot 4:13-14)

Life is filled with decisions and choices. It can be confusing to know what to do -- and sometimes our fear can get in the way. In this episode of morning mindfulness let's learn to overcome fear and make decisions with clarity. Dedicated in memory of Rachel bat Pesach.

A fascinating look at miracles!! (Avot 5:8)

Life is full of disagreements but it doesn't have to be filled with discord. Listen to find out how to Disagree To get in touch email gilaross@gmail.com or +447990333946

Are podcasters allowed to have a favourite!?! 😜 Well this episode with the fabulous Ruchi Koval just may be it! We talk about her vulnerability, her struggle when life threw her curveballs and some incredible tips for the High Holidays. If there is one podcast you're going to listen to before the high holidays this is it!

Our Wednesday night group discusses the unforseen impact of action.

Some brilliant ideas about human relationships with those close and far from us. Sometimes we try to help people but we only end up making things worse! How do we ensure that we are actually being of help? And what should our attitude towards negative people? (Avot 4:23-24)

And how to protect what we can gain in life. (Avot 3:17)

Let's look at the significance of small things and also how important am I in the grand scheme of things. (Avot 4:2-3)

In a world inundated with information, what type of consumer are you? What type of giver? What is your attitude towards self-improvement. See if you can identify yourself in one of these 4 types. (Avot 5:16-18)

Sometimes it feels like we're the lone voice standing up for what's right and we wonder whether there's any point...

Do you have to forgive someone who hurt you? And how do you define cruelty?

In this third episode of the 3 types of relationships we need in our lives, we look at our relationship with those who have less life experience than us, whether they are students, children or others that we can teach, why it's so important to have those relationships and how they can prompt us to be our best self. 

The Surprising Secret to Increasing Love in Our Relationships

Join the challenge!

Oops! We've all been there, we've said something we shouldn't have said, or said something that came out wrong. Now What!?! He reminded us how it can be almost impossible to take the words we say so we need to be so careful with our words, but also showed us how repair is possible. Your Challenge! Think of one person you may have hurt with your words -- we've all done that, and acknowledge to yourself that you owe them an apology. Even if you don't feel courageous enough right now to apologise to them at least acknowledge to yourself that they deserve that. Remember that as hard as it is to be honest with ourselves about our mistakes, it gives us an opportunity to repair and strengthen our relationships.

 Avoiding Distress, "Weekday Activities" and "Creative Changes"

Not allowed to cause anyone anguish or emotional distress on Shabbos, e.g. can't share bad news. We don't comfort mourners under most circumstances. We don't fast on Shabbos. Don't even say tehillim for someone unless person is dangerously ill.

Shouldn't play chess with someone if person will become depressed if he loses.

In order to distinguish shabbos from other days,   we are to avoid "weekday activities" - "uvdin dechol".

These are activities that closely resemble the type of thing we would do on a weekday, these activities are ones that would involve a "melacha" - 1 of forbidden types of work.

Some examples:

1) Using a grater. Food can be chopped on shabbos but we shouldn't use a grater as it's an item which is usually associated with a melacha.

2) Hair brush. You can use a brush that you know won't pull out hairs but should designate a special shabbos brush even if your weekday one doesn't pull out hairs.

3) Using a computer example for zoom that's already switched on and you won't switch off after. Note a computer and zoom has other issues involved even when not being touched but would also full under this banner.

**

On Shabbos we make the point of ceasing from creative acts. The Rabbis also added certain creative acts themselves.

We can't create a new entity or bring about a dramatic creative change in a substance.

Examples:

1) Crushing ice to water, as that change in substance is similar to a new entity.

2) Can't melt congealed fats to transform into a liquid.

3) Can't infuse a scent into a garment.

4) Not to strike a match on yom tov when it's permissable to make a fire.

We will look at these scenarios and see whether it's muktza and your stuck or if there is a way to move?:

1) play in sandpit

2) phone left on a bed

3) crack open a nut with a hammer

4) throw out dirty nappy

5) move fallen sukkah decorations that have fallen in sukkah

6) fresh egg your chicken lays

7) use shabbos table for shabbos day once candlesticks were on it Friday night

The question we are looking at in this episode is: There is a sale I want to go to right after shabbat? Can I walk there on Shabbat so I can be there right as Shabbat ends?

The prophet's words are a form of "rest" to protect spirit of Shabbos.

As its the prophet's speaking it carries weight.

In Yeshaya it says "you shall honour the Shabbos in your goings by refraining from pursuing your weekday occupations and from speaking of them".

Basically referring to 3 elements:

1) Walking

2) Weekday occupations

3) Speech  

A timely look at the opportunity that we are given in this world, resurrection and the accountability of each of our actions. (Avot 4:29)

Have you ever been bothered by something someone else has said and wondered whether it's worth having a discussion about it? An interesting insight into why it may be and how that conversation may go down. And also how we teach our kids to be powerful communicators.

Unfortunately we all see injustice in our lifetimes... How should you handle it? Is it someone else's problem? Is it something we have to go out and fight? How do we know if your response is proportionate? To get in touch with Gila gilaross@gmail.com.

The astonishing answer to why knowledge of what we should and shouldn't do is not enough to help us change. And what we need instead. -- For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my almost sold out book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

--

Any questions or feedback, get in touch gilaross@gmail.com

Seems little to do with our lives!, some of questions to investigate:

1) Picking a plum

2) Walking on grass

3) Using a hammock 

4) Riding a horse

5) Smelling a fruit on a tree

Reaping is the uprooting or severing of any living plant or vegetation from its source of growth.

This can be by uprooting an entire plant or even by breaking off a leaf or a branch.

Classic examples?

Picking an apple even though the tree remains rooted to the ground. Or picking vegetables, flowers or pulling weeds from a garden.

We are not discussing merely inhibiting growth, that is ok and not included. Eg you can close a blind near a plant even though this will block sunlight.

Some examples of how this melacha applies:

1) Removing moss from damp wood, as that's its natural growing surface. 

2) Removing seeds from a jar of water where they are sprouting.

3) Lifting a potted plant from soil.

4) Removing a non muktza seed from the ground isn't a problem as long as remained there less than 2 days as the seeds not yet began to germinate.

(Note - by dropping a seed onto the earth it's a problem immediately of sowing!)

5) Walking on grass is ok even though it may uproot grass because it's not inevitable.

6) Walking on delicate plants not ok as the stems will snap under foot, likewise heavy contact sports not simple at all. Even running on long grass an issue.

7) Deliberately kicking pollen laden dandelion not ok as the pollen will become detached.

On top of this the Rabbi's restricted 4 areas that could lead to this melacha:

1) Using a Tree:

Use includes climbing a tree, leaning against one or sitting on it. The concern was breaking off a part of the tree whilst on it. Therefore trees are muktza including even to lean one's full weight on it or even to place your jacket on it.

2) Using an animal:

The Rabbi's were concerned riding an animal could lead to this melacha as one might need a stick to prod the animal and may rip it off a tree.

3) Smelling a fruit on a tree:

Lest one come to pick it off the tree

4) Fruits that fell from a tree on Shabbos:

Are muktza.

The Curious Case of Leah giving birth at an advanced age teaches us a lot about the natural and the wonderous

Question 1) is it OK to put a tray of cold roast chicken on the blech to reheat it? Question 2) Is there a way to return a hot cholent pot back into a crockpot after you serve from the pot? Question 3) Is it OK to take pot from fire and put on hotplate? It is prohibited to return any food even if fully cooked directly onto the heat source, ie the "blech" during the course of shabbos. So, this prohibition even applies to foods that one is otherwise permitted to reheat, eg you can reheat a cold tray of roast chicken if placed near to the blech, but you can't place it on the blech to warm up. The reason it's forbidden to return food to the fire is it has the outward appearance of cooking and could lead people to think that cooking is allowed. There are 4 conditions under which it's permitted to return a cooked food to the fire: 1) it must be fully cooked. 2) it must be the intention to return it. 3) it must be held the entire time even if held on a surface, eg a table. 4) it must be returned to a properly covered flame. In the case of a mistake, as long as the food is fully cooked and returned to the blech, ie conditions 1 and 4. You could transfer a pot from an oven to blech but not the other way round.  You couldn't transfer a pot from the blech to the hotplate as transferring is like returning. The only way to do this acceptably would be to put the pot on the hotplate with a sheet of foil or another blech would cover the hotplate. There are 2 ways without the 4 conditions to permissibly warm food: 1) to place food near to the blech, even if the food to get properly hot. 2) to place food on a pot that's on the fire already or even to put down an empty pot on the fire. Eg if you want to heat up a cold kugel put it on top of an upside down tray. Now it lacks the appearance of cooking. How does one return a crockpot to its cylinder? On the surface this would be an issue of returning. The way to allow this is to cover the interior of the cylinder with aluminium foil. Then you would have to know its fully cooked, have the intention to return it and hold it whilst serving from it.

A story of trickery and deception and how we discover our most powerful and often overlooked tool to build faith, in ourself, others & G-d)!

Does G-d actually care about the details? What difference do the little things even make? And what should our relationship with G-d be based on? Love? Fear? What is fear of G-d anyway and is it a good thing? Join the Wednesday evening group for a fascinating look at these topics!

Is it OK to:

1) ask a Jew who isn't particular about Shabbos to turn off a light?

2) ask a non-Jew to turn your light on?

3) ask a non-Jew to turn your annoying alarm off?

4) ask your non-Jewish cleaner to clean up from Shabbos?

5) ask your non-Jewish cleaner to set up for Saturday night event? 

6) plug in your freezer which is full of meat when the plug got knocked out?

7) ask a non-Jew to bring you Challah from your neighbor when there is no eruv when you realise on Shabbos that you have run out of Challah?

The secret to unleashing so much happiness in our lives and to accessing the freedom to live with internal harmony. And what does the study of Torah have to do with us and our everyday life? (Avot 6:1-3)

Does it matter what you think of other people? Who cares what's going on in your head? In this episode we look at 3 important reasons why it makes a huge difference what we think about other people.

--

For more insights on how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot, check out my book Living Beautifully - gilaross.com/book

We're told we can discover the essence of a person by 3 things - how they behave when it comes to finances, when they are under the influence and when they are angry! Let's take a look at 4 different approaches to temper and meanwhile answer the age old question of can a leopard change its spots!?! (Avot 5:14)

3 relevant ideas that we can learn from Tu B'Shvat to uplift us and bring more joy to our lives.

In our conversation with Rabbi Asher Resnick, bereaved father and author of Pain is a Reality, Suffering is a Choice we look at what things are like right now in Israel and what the helpful questions are to ask under these sort of circumstances. Using his experiences of his daughter's illness and death, he shares with us some of the principles that helped him go through his situation and how he has used that to teach others about suffering and challenges. He shares with us the difference in response between being in the trauma and being post-trauma. We also look at what comfort means and how a person can be comforted. This uplifting and empowering conversation is a must-listen to. You can find Rabbi Resnick's book and articles on www.jewishclarity.com. To get in touch with Gila email gilaross@gmail.com.

We live in a world of incredible beauty and kindness but also incredible pain. A short message from the Purim story about how we face life's seeming contradictions.

Is all greatness equal? How do we define greatness and how do we set ourselves up for true success? And the story of why we decided to uproot our family. (Avot 4:17-18)

Our Wednesday evening group discusses easy questions like 'Who do we want to be?', visions and goals and how they can help us transcend today's difficulties.

In this new series we're going to learn about our soul's journey! Why do we need a soul and why does the soul need to be in this world? -- Use code AVOT25 to save 25% on my new book Living Beautifully- how to bring meaning, joy and life into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot at gilaross.com/book

It's not just twinkling lights and chocolate gelt, chanukah has some incredible tools to transform your life so you can find meaning and happiness. To schedule a free consultation with Gila, book here: https://calendly.com/gilaross/60min

As human beings we have some desires that are unavoidable, they can even be functional, but they are so easy to be taken to the excess. Take the desire for physical pleasure, so easily turned to gluttony or unhealthy habits! Join us to hear about 3 common vices and their antidotes. (Avot 4:28)

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq Chanukah isn’t just a celebration of miracles and light; it’s also a profound lesson about the different kinds of illumination we bring to our lives. In this episode, we explore the two types of lights we see in life and what it teches us about the daily grind of consistency and the moments of unexpected brilliance. Join us as we discuss: - The symbolic meaning of the menorah’s lights and their relevance to our personal journeys. - How consistency in small, everyday actions creates the foundation for meaningful living. Reflection Questions: - How do you stay consistent in your daily responsibilities and routines? - When was the last time you experienced a moment of “miraculous” inspiration? - How can you bring more light—both steady and extraordinary—into your life and the lives of others? Connect With Us: - Follow us on Instagram @itsgilaross and Facebook for more insights into the wisdom of Chanukah and beyond. - Share your reflections or stories of light and miracles at gilaross@gmail.com This Chanukah, let’s learn to honor the grind while celebrating the sparks of the miraculous. Tune in to find the inspiration to light up your life every day!

The days leading up to Rosh Hashana are powerful days filled with opportunity! Let's take a lesson learned from Lockdown to make this coming year unforgettable, in a great way! 

Judaism places a huge value on kindness so why would Jewish law block some people from doing kindness? This will give us an insight into our lives and the 2 pathways to Greatness and which one is right for us.

What types of relationships do we need in our lives? And the secret to maintaining them successfully. (Avot 1:7-8)

Sometimes we want to know "God what do you want from me?" as a question to find meaning, to bring our part into the world. Sometimes, though we ask from a place of my life or the world has gone crazy! God, what do you want from me? Sometimes we know what God wants and it's just too hard. How do we deal with that? In this episode We're going to discuss the answer! You can get Gilas new book Living Beautifully - how to bring meaning joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot here - https://amzn.to/47HsRyN

Bonus episode: the last episode on loving G-d sparked some great questions, so here's a bonus episode. If you have any questions email Gilaross@gmail.com.

For more insights check our my new book Living Beautifully- how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on timeless Jewish wisdom. Www.gilaross.com/book or https://amzn.to/3wIKXUA

Are you allowed to vent? What about whistle-blowing?

This episode focuses on understanding the concept of lashon hara (negative speech) in Jewish ethics and exploring the seven conditions that make it permissible to speak negatively about someone—but only for a constructive reason (to’elet). The intention is to clarify when it is allowed to share information that would otherwise be considered lashon hara, ensuring the speech is used to prevent harm and promote positive outcomes.

• Definition: Lashon hara refers to speaking negatively about another person, even if the information is true. In Jewish ethics, this kind of speech is prohibited because of the potential harm it can cause to individuals and communities.
• Constructive Purpose: There are rare cases where it is permissible to share negative information, but only if it is done with the goal of preventing harm or achieving a positive outcome.

- Send us your thoughts and questions at gilaross@gmail.com




- Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!




- Check out my book, Living Beautifully for more insights to bring joy, meaning and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - gilaross.com/book

---

Thank you for tuning in! We hope this episode helps you navigate the fascinating impact of our words

Wednesday wisdom looks at what the rush was at Passover time? Why did G-d have to take the Jews out in middle of the night? Couldn't G-d have given them a little extra time so they could have made their bread and left with ease? We discover why time was of essence and the secret to spirituality and success. To schedule a complimentary discovery call with Gila email gilaross@gmail.com where you can discover how to incorporate these insights into your life. 

If you're like me you probably hate being judged... and yet, who wants to be taken for a ride? In this episode we look at:

- what does Judaism expect from us when it comes to judging other people?

- How we make sure we aren't niave?

--

For more insights on how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot, check out my book Living Beautifully - gilaross.com/book

If you type living a on Google one of the first predictions is 'living a good life'. What are the elements that go into a good life? Listen to advice from well loved and knowledgeable person! (Avot 3:21)

Self esteem is such a huge topic nowadays! Together with our Wednesday evening group we look at the pressures and antidotes to building a solid sense of self.

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

In this episode, we explore the complex and often hidden roots of self-sabotage. Why do we sometimes act in ways that go against our own best interests? Through insights from Torah, we unpack the underlying fears and limiting beliefs that contribute to self-sabotaging patterns. From procrastination to negative self-talk, self-sabotage can appear in many forms, subtly hindering our progress in both personal and professional realms.

Self-sabotage can ultimately hold us back from our true potential. By identifying its roots, we can begin the journey toward self-acceptance, resilience, and freedom from these limiting patterns.

**Subscribe and Share**:

If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe to our podcast for more insights on personal growth and breaking free from limiting behaviors. Share with anyone who might find these tools helpful for their own journey!

Sometimes we feel that if only we had a sign life would be different, we would be different! Is that true though? Let's examine it by using a case study. (Avot 5:5-6)

How do we access happiness during challenging times? Is it realistic? In this episode we explore a mindset shift that can make all the difference.

Get one of the last few copies!! For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - check out my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

In this episode, we dive into the core elements that shape the Jewish spiritual experience. We explore the "DNA of Judaism" through three foundational concepts: the fear of God, the pursuit of self-mastery, and the Jewish perspective on our relationship with God. These principles not only frame Jewish spirituality but also serve as a guide for leading a meaningful and purpose-driven life. By unpacking each of these elements, we uncover how they connect deeply to our daily lives and to the greater purpose of Jewish faith.

Key Themes and Takeaways:

1. Fear of God: Reverence and Awe

- What It Means: Fear of God is often misunderstood as fear of punishment, but in Judaism, it’s about cultivating awe and respect for the Divine. This reverence shapes how we conduct ourselves, make decisions, and approach the ethical dimensions of life.

2. Self-Mastery:

- What It Means: In Jewish thought, self-mastery isn’t about suppressing our desires but rather elevating them to serve a greater good. It’s about self-discipline, resilience, and aligning our behavior with our values.

3. Our Relationship with God: Connection and Partnership

- What It Means: The Jewish relationship with God is built on a foundation of connection and partnership. Rather than seeing God as distant, we view the Divine as an active presence in our lives, guiding, supporting, and challenging us.

---

Closing Thoughts:

Together, the fear of God, self-mastery, and our relationship with the Divine form the "DNA of Judaism." These elements remind us that our lives are not random but meaningful, with opportunities for growth, connection, and service. By integrating these principles into our lives, we carry the torch of Jewish wisdom and share its light with the world.

Subscribe and Share:

If this episode resonated with you, subscribe to our podcast to continue exploring the deeper layers of Jewish life. Please share with others who may be seeking inspiration, as we continue to bring timeless teachings into everyday conversation.

What is a human being? And what's the worst thing you can do for yourself? (Avot 3:18)

Hear the story of Dovi Halpern, from Hashem's Warrior, who grew up religious, moved away from it and fought to find his own place in Judaism. Hear how he was inspired by the words of King David to find hope in darkness and start a metal band to spread messages of spirituality.

If someone wanted to convert to Judaism what would you tell them? Which mitzvoth would you share with them? A fascinating look at the mitzvoth that naomi told ruth and the insights it gives us into what Judaism is all about.

We may not have asked ourselves this question but perhaps we should have!?! (Avot 1:6)

Cynicism is a normal defense system when we experience setbacks. We can feel stuck and hopeless. Let's look at the rather surprising ending to the book of Shemot and learn the key to resilience.

1) Filtering tap water? 2) Straining foods with a sieve? 3) Sifting clumps from powdered baby cereal? 4) Using a salt shaker? 5) Filtering pressed fruit juice? The melacha is the separation and removal of unwanted matter from a mixture by sifting it through a sieve or similar device, eg using a sieve to remove solidified clumps of sugar in a packet of sugar. Note, nothing wrong with using a sieve to spread thin coating of sugar on a cake as nothing is being sifted. This melacha is the act of separating or isolating from a mixture, not merely scattering or sprinkling particles. Not only is sifting included, but so is straining and filtering. So, straining sediment from wine for example is a problem. It applies to non food items too. It's irrelevant whether what you desire or don't desire is removed, either way its a problem. It's only a problem when it "significantly improves". But let's say most people would not be bothered by what's there, you can't define this as a "significant improvement ". So let's look at impurities in water. If it's so bad people wouldn't drink it under almost any circumstances then filtering would be a "significant improvement ". Other examples would include: tea containing many tea leaves, old wine with heavy sediment, fresh juice with lots or pips and peal. But even a level lower than this whereby there is a noticeable amount of impurities that most people would only drink if filtered is also a problem. So this would mean you shouldn't filter tap water that's safe but cloudy enough that most would filter it, tea containing a small number of leaves. It's only liquids containing mixtures that are drinkable to most people that are OK to filter, eg our tap water, so you can filter it on shabbos. Please note if someone is finicky you couldn't filter for them on shabbos. Question 1) Tap water ok to be filtered if in place where most people would be able to drink it without filtering. Question 2) Straining foods with a sieve not ok. Question 3) Sifting clumps from powdered baby food not ok. Question 4) Using a salt shaker is ok as it's only an issue when removing undesired particles. Would be an issue if undesirable matter was being held back in the sieve like cap. Question 5) Filtering pressed fruit juice is ok as long as it would be drinkable to most people in its untrained state. If you personally are finicky you couldn't strain it. In any event this only applies to minor things in juice like pulp and seeds that would bother people.

How comes we can have the best of resolutions and intentions and yet our actions can fall short!?! 3 Power questions for a healthy attitude that will keep us from messing up. (Avot 3:1)

What would shabbos look like without rabbinic laws?

Do you ever feel like the list of stuff to accomplish and improve on is insurmountable?? It can get us down. In this short episode we look at whether it's worth the effort. (Avot 2:18-19)

Can you imagine jumping out of bed in the morning not wanting to change a thing?!? Is that even achievable? Can we get a little more serenity and acceptance in our life? In this short episode we also look at waiting for the 'right' moment and examine some useful tools you can use now. (Avot 2:3-4)

We generally try for moderation, but are there exceptions? How do we stay authentic and grounded? (Avot 4-5)

Let's take a look at Abraham and his tests and use it to understand what the point of tests and challenges are. (Avot 5:4)

A story for the kids

I was talking with a friend about social media and how it can so quickly fill us with self-doubt. Interestingly enough, the bowing that we do during prayers can help us out here. What? How? Listen to find out! (Zokef kefufim)

For more insights into how to bring meaning, joy and love into your life based on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot - grab one of the last few copies of my book, Living Beautifully - https://amzn.to/4aCoYgq

In this heartwarming and insightful episode, we dive into the art of building meaningful friendships. Why are friendships so vital to our well-being? How can we deepen our connections with others, and what does it take to maintain these bonds over time? Whether you're looking to strengthen existing relationships or forge new ones, this episode is packed with practical tips, inspiring stories, and expert advice to help you navigate the world of friendship.

Listener Challenge: This week, do one thing to invest in friendships!

Connect with Us:

• Follow us on Instagram: @itsgilaross

• Email us your friendship stories or questions: gilaross@gmail.com

Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and spread the art of friendship far and wide!

You know that pit feeling you get in your stomach when you realise you've messed up 🙈 and you wish you could just back up and delete what you just did. Well what if I told you that we actually can delete our mistakes. In this short episode I share how we can delete our mistakes.

Must listen!!! Is Judaism filled with restrictions and fear? Is there any fun in Judaism? Is there any joy??

In this episode of morning mindfulness we look at a powerful and new way to look at your amazing body! And we explore where using that mindfulness will take us and how it can really change our days. The blessing we explore is: "You, our G-d, Source of all blessings, Master of the World, created people with wisdom and made our bodies so complex with many cavities and many openings. It is obvious and known to You that if even one of them were to rupture or become blocked, it would be impossible to survive and to stand before You. You, Source of all blessings, Master of the World, heals our bodies and make wondrous creations. Complete the morning mindfulness challenge and let me know how it felt! You can get in touch on Instagram @gilaross or Facebook.

I was so frustrated that I hadn't got an opportunity that I was hoping for. Until I understood the conversation between Joseph and Judah.

Do you even have a goal? Is it good to have a goal? Listen in on our fabulous Wednesday group discuss about goals, having them, why we should or we shouldn't and how we know if our goal is attainable. To join an upcoming Wednesday evening session, in person, over zoom or on Instagram live, message +44-7990-333-946.

Question 1) What are the concerns of driving on Shabbos? Question 2) What about pouring hot water from a kettle on a kiddush cup to melt away droplets of wax? Question 3) Any difference between cooking a liquid and a solid? Like drops of water vs piece of chicken. Question 4) What can be re warmed on shabbos? Cooking is the causing of a change in the properties of a food or substance by use of heat. This not only includes a raw food until it becomes edible, through cooking, baking, frying or roasting, but also in non foods too like heating wax until it melts or causing metal to become red hot. In terms of a car there are a number of reasons it's an issue: 1) Melacha of "mavier" which we will do in a later session. Combustion is the issue here. Crazily this melacha occurs thousands of times per minute 🙈. Nothing else like this. 2) This melacha of cooking, due to engine lubricants such as engine oil which are cooked halachically. Similarly the cooling system causes the engine coolant such as the anti freeze to become very hot. Liquids are more strict than solids in a regard. With solids it is considered cooked once there is a significant physical charge.  By liquids they don't need any significant change but rather it's the state of warmth itself which is the point at which cooking has taken place. There is a similarity between liquids and solids in that it's only an issue once a substantial degree of heat has effected the food, this is the point at which ones hand would draw back from touching something due to its heat. So, room temperature wouldn't make you accountable for this melacha, eg if ice cream melted (granted you would have another issue of creation). The temperature of the hand drawing back is somewhere between 40 and 71° celcius/ 104 and 160° degrees Fahrenheit. Another aspect of cooking liquids is accelerating the process. These methods include: 1) Changing the position of the pot so it's closer to the fire. 2) Reducing the volume of what's in the pot cooking, as that causes what's remaining to cook faster. 3) Stiring the food in the pot on the fire.  4) Covering a pot with a lid whilst it's on the flame. 5) Closing an oven door if the food isn't completely cooked. Reheating foods: The only way to do this is with a 1)fully cooked dry food, 2) in an indirect way such as on a hot plate, and 3) in the same way it was cooked the first time!, eg if baked can only be re warmed dry if if cooked can only be re re warmed through liquid, like putting cold noodles into a bowl of hot chicken soup.

Question 1) Putting spices into a pot that's on the flame? Ok? Question 2) Putting milk and sugar into a hot coffee? Ok? Question 3) Making a cup of tea on shabbos how to do? There are a number of different categories of how heat can be used to heat uncooked liquids and foods. 1) 1st vessel 2) 2nd vessel  3) 3rd vessel For our purposes please note that we are going to use halachik rather than scientific principles. Ultimately we are saying that the first vessel can cause cooking when its really hot, whereas the second vessel can't, even when it's hotter.. So, it must be dependent on more than simply how hot a vessel is but other factors too, including how the "walls" of the vessels are regarded in terms of "cooling" things off. 1) First vessel - the container into which a food or liquid was cooked or heated. This can be on the flame itself, eg a pot of soup boiling on the fire where its absolutely forbidden to put any uncooked food or liquids into it, eg one can't put salt into a pot that's on the flame on shabbos. Or it could even be a hot pot that's been removed from the flame. You also can't put a baked item into a first vessel, eg croutons into a hot pot of soup.  So, what can be put into a first vessel? Any solid food that is completely cooked may be placed into it once its been removed from the fire, eg a piece of cold cooked chicken could be put into a pot of hot soup. 2) second vessel - it has a lower heat than a first vessel. Its any container into which hot food or liquid from a first vessel is directly poured, eg a cup of hot water filled directly from the hot water urn. The rule is, anything that's deemed "sensitive" to heat can cook even in a second vessel.  As its uncertain exactly what this includes the only items to put into a second vessel are things already cooked like warming a bottle of milk as the milk is pasteurised or to add cold milk or sugar to a coffee. Additionally water, oil, ginger, cinnamon, salt, pepper. 3) Third vessel - it's a different level of heat than a second vessel. We can rely on saying that a third vessel does not cause any cooking, no matter how hot it is. So, use a 3rd vessel anytime you prepare hot drinks or food. So, make your tea or coffee this way.

Question 1) Pulling out a grey hair on Shabbos, ok? Question 2) What about tweezing eyebrows? Question 3) How about pulling a hair from a fur coat? Question 4) Removing feathers from a cooked chicken?? Question 5) Is it always OK to comb hair on Shabbos? Question 6) How can you remove nits on Shabbos? Gum?! This "melacha" is the first in a group of 13 that comprises the essential steps in the processing of wool fabrics and garments. Shearing the wool of a sheep is the 1st stage in the manufacture of woolen garments. It can be *defined as the severing or uprooting of any growing part of the body of any creature*, even one no longer alive. Also included is *cutting or tweeting hair from one's head or body.* Even cutting a single hair is this "melacha". Biting or pulling out hair is also prohibited. *Tweezing eyebrows or other excess hair or using a hair remover isn't ok.* As a dead animal is included in this "melacha" you can't pull a hair from a natural fur. But, it's *ok to remove feathers from a cooked chicken* for various reasons, including that the cooking causes the feathers and hair to loosen their grip and come off easily, therefore they are considered "flicked" through the cooking. *Cutting or brushing hair is this "melacha", as it will inevitably pull out hair.* In order to *brush hair in a permissable* way; 1) use a *soft bristle brush* as the bristles usually bend. 2) use in a *gentle way*. 3) designate a *special shabbos brush* (due to a different issue). However if someone knows their hair will come out no matter what, this wouldn't help. *Nits* would appear to be a similar issue. The way to deal with this is to remove them *without any comb in a gentle way so it's not being tugged from its roots.* This can be done by gently grasping the long strand of hair with one's thumb and forefinger, between the root and the knit while sliding the nit upwards and out of the hair with the thumbnail and forefinger of another hand. Additionally, shampoos should not be used. What would you say about *removing gum* from hair?! It can't be forcibly pulled out as it will definitely cause hair to be pulled out. Possible solution is to apply *ice to the spot where the gum is embedded which usually causes the gum to harden and lose some of its stickiness and after a couple of minutes should slide off without pulling hair!* A few drops of oil could accomplish the same result. And.. what about removing a bandaid/plaster from male skin?! Try using oil or nail polish remover to devolve the adhesive. Otherwise leave plaster on till after Shabbos. *Cutting or removing fingernails or toenails is a problem*, or even a part of a nail. Similarly, one shouldn't remove a wart, a pimple or even loose bits of dried skin.

You're living a double life, but it might not be a bad thing. Listen to find out!!

As much as we all hate stress is it an inevitable part of life?? But what if we can choose our stress? (Avot 3:6-7)

Sowing is the initiation or promotion of plant growth, whether accomplished by sowing, planting, watering or any other means.

1) Placing a seed on mud?

2) Planting a seed on a well used path?

3) Throwing remains of your apple core in the garden?

4) Washing hands over grass when having a picnic?

5) So how can you take off a sukkah roof when it's water logged and will get into the grass?

6) Covering a plant with a blanket to protect it from say the sunlight or cold

7) Plants, what's there status on Shabbos?

8) Flowers, what's there status on shabbos?

1) Placing a seed in mud is a problem as growth is possible.

2) Planting a seed on a well used path isn't a problem of sowing as the constant trampling will prevent the seeds from sprouting. Similarly fine to plant a seed in a dessert.

3) Must be careful of discarding fruits and vegetables outdoors as they could germinate in the ground.

4) Can't get water on grass as it promotes the growth. Just be careful not saying you can't drink outdoors.

5) It could be OK to take sukkah roof off even when you know the water will get onto the grass when either:

The grass is already water saturated so not adding anything.

Or if you open it over pavement even if it will then roll onto the grass.

A way out of this is to put a plastic tarp out before yom tov and that way when you lift the roof it will spill onto the tarp.

6) Can't cover a plant with a blanket as it's promoting its growth.

7) Indoor plants are looked same way as outdoor ones so we don't water indoor plants, nor do we proposely improve the light, air or temperature.

We can't put it on grass or even suspend it over grass as it as it's possible that in hakachik terms this assists in drawing extra nutrients from the soil.

8) Once a plant is detached it's no longer living so it's not muktza like a plant is. But we don't put into water if not done before shabbos.

As a rebbetzin I get a lot of questions... one of the harder ones is why some religious people do bad things... in this episode we explore this issue.

Jordana Bachurov from drinkitin launches the clean speech challenge with an inspiring story of snakes, car seats and challenges us to upgrade our morning cup of coffee/tea/water with deciding who you will say something positive to. Join the challenge for a chance to win one of 3 prizes! Email gilaross@gmail.com for details!

In this special episode we chat with Meira Spivak, Innovator, Director of Oregon NCSY, Mother of a Very Large Family and most recently Author of 'How to Make Pesach in 5 Days'! She shares her secret to her can-do attitude, to stressing less and what her superpower is. What a joy to listen to!

I was discussing with a friend how we can achieve life's goals when we are so weighed down by ... Life itself, whether it's work, family or day to day stress. Here's the answer :) (Avot 3:4-5)

Bonus episode, due to popular requests! Do Jews believe in Astrology? And if something is written in the stars, can we change our destiny?

How important is knowledge? And is all knowledge created equal?

In this fascinating discussion our Wednesday evening group looks at how we fail and what separates the mediocre from those who go on to achieve their goals! A huge thank you to https://blog.feedspot.com/jewish_podcasts/ for naming the PowerUp Podcast as number 16 of the top 50 Jewish podcasts worldwide!!

On the first day of our family trip we found ourselves stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire... hear more about it and how it relates to a look at the attributes necessary for success and happiness? And is it better to be good at lots or to master one trait? Looking forward to hearing your thoughts! (2:13)

When a person suffers through a painful experience, how can they rise above it? Is it possible to move to a place of joy? Joseph gives us inspiration. He was able to overcome and even name his child in gratitude for recovering from his difficulties. How?