"Ready or not here I come!" - Pesach

Serious question - why does the word ‘Pesach’ trigger sooo much anxiety? 

When did we reach a stage where halacha causes so much mental anguish and anxiety? 

We even joke ‘I'm not going to say the ‘P’ word and then all the anxiety jokes start pouring in. 

It's easy to say ‘But it's not supposed to be like that!’

Except it is. 

Every year tons of ideas, tips, and advice go around on how to make all the cleaning, shopping, and cooking for Pesach easier. Since there is so much out there already, I'm not going to talk about that. Instead, I will talk about YOU and how you can help yourself stay calm (or at least less anxious!). 

Pesach is NOT meant to be a chag that conjures up anxiety. If it is then something needs to be changed.

If Hashem was theoretically standing here in front of you right now,  do you think He would want you to be filled with so much anxiety about the preparations for Pesach?

If you are in the camp of ‘Pesach = anxiety + fights and resentment’, here are a few reminders that you probably already know, but might need reminding of: 

Cobwebs are not chametz. 

Dust is not chametz.

Dirty walls and windows are not chametz. 

And decluttering is not classified as getting rid of your chametz. 

Whilst the above are all nice things to do, here is another question to ask yourself:  

“Is the time and energy you are putting in for your clean walls, windows and decluttering worth the fights and frustration?  And do you think that this is what Hashem wants from you?” 

Before continuing, take a moment to answer those questions and reflect on your answer. 

After removing the above from your list, Pesach still requires cleaning and preparations. Here are some ways to help calm the overwhelm and prevent anxiety before it gets triggered:

1. Eat something healthy—it gives you energy! When you don’t eat well, you get moody. Low energy makes it worse, and before you know it, you're snapping at people for breathing too loudly.  It’s a ripple effect so fuel yourself wisely! 

   
   

2. Spend a few minutes outside and catch the sun - even if it is on your balcony. Vitamin D will help put you in a good mood. 

   
   

3. Drink water. We all know that dehydration causes headaches and exhaustion but did you know that it also mimics depression?  Staying hydrated can make a huge difference to your overall wellbeing. As a minimum start the day with a glass of water before you put anything else into your body.

   
   

4. Hit 3 birds with 1 stone -  Start your day by drinking a glass of water and eating something healthy for breakfast whilst sitting outside in the sun for just 10 minutes. That’s 3 birds, 1 stone! 

   
   

5. When you find yourself starting to feel anxious try this: for 2 minutes (put a timer on your phone) sit down, close your eyes, and breathe slowly and deeply. This will help to relax your muscles and calm your mind. 

   
   

6. Take a break, even if it's just 10 minutes. If you were being paid to clean your home, legally you would be entitled to breaks, so why not give yourself the same treatment? Remember - you are not a machine! Taking breaks will help you recharge, avoid burnout, and actually, you will be able to get more done. It will also keep you from resenting your mop. Win-win!

   
   

Are there any ways you help yourself stay calm in preparation for Pesach?

Leave a comment below and share it with us.