In the Shulchan Aruch (a compilation of Jewish law) we read that “it is a positive commandment to be very careful and guard oneself from any life-threatening obstacle as it is said, ‘… take utmost care and watch yourselves scrupulously’ (Deut.4:9)”. It is quite fascinating to me, that the rabbis would include taking care of one’s body as a positive commandment. Hillel is famous for calling his Friday bath a mitzvah, as he perceived it as taking care of the divine image and likeness. In Judaism we do not encourage ascetic behaviors nor do we treat our bodies as the enemy of spirituality, but rather we take care of them.
Today at Cardin we all participate in Wellness Day. Both students and teachers will enjoy various lectures lead by experts in the field (on subjects ranging from acupuncture and dietary choices, to the science of sleep and skin cancer prevention) as well as a number of physical activities. I, personally, look forward to a class in Mixed Martial Arts and a workout to strengthen my body’s core. Students and teachers can also choose a yoga or zumba class, or even try to become a hula hoop king or queen.
This day is not just a “fun day”, which would be very appropriate for Rosh Chodesh Adar, but also a day of learning and living Torah – we are fulfilling the mitzvah of taking care of our health and well being. And because we are taught that ein kemach ein Torah, ein Torah ein kemach – “where there is no physical nourishment there can be no Torah, where there is no Torah, there is no way to acquire physical nourishment," we will also enjoy a salad bar lunch. Put on some comfortable clothes and join us for Cardin Wellness Day!
~Rochel Johanna Czopnik
Judaics Instructor
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