Embracing Tu B’Shevat: A Celebration of Trees and Connection
Tu B’Shevat, the “New Year for the Trees,” offers a chance to connect with nature, each other, and ourselves. Falling on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Shevat (February 12-13), the holiday's name, "Tu," derives from the numerical value of the Hebrew letters tet and vav, adding up to the number 15.
Originally tied to agricultural practices, Tu B’Shevat has grown into what many call “Jewish Earth Day.” It’s a time to reflect on our connection to the environment and think about how we care for the world we share.
Below, you'll find texts, questions, and exercises designed to support the social, emotional, and spiritual growth of your learners while fostering a connection to nature.
Texts for Reflection and Discussion
Building Self and Social Awareness, and Relationship Skills
Text 1: A Tale from the Talmud
Told by Peninnah Schram
The story of Honi the Circle Maker teaches us about the power of planting seeds—both literal and metaphorical—for future generations.
Honi the Wise One was also known as Honi the Circle Maker. By drawing a circle and stepping inside of it, he would recite special prayers for rain, sometimes even argue with God during a drought, and the rains would come. He was, indeed, a miracle maker. As wise as he was, Honi sometimes saw something that puzzled him. Then he would ask questions so he could unravel the mystery.
One day, Honi the Circle Maker was walking on the road and saw a man planting a carob tree.
Honi asked the man, “How long will it take for this tree to bear fruit?
The man replied, “Seventy years.”
Honi then asked the man, “And do you think you will live another seventy years and eat the fruit of this tree?”
The man answered, “Perhaps not. However, when I was born into this world, I found many carob trees planted by my father and grandfather. Just as they planted trees for me, I am planting trees for my children and grandchildren so they will be able to eat the fruit of these trees.”
Even though the man may not ever see the tree he plants bear fruit, he plants it anyway, making sure the next generation will benefit from his work.
Activity: Watch this video adaptation of Honi’s story and explore the emotions of the characters through observation - Tu B'shvat Tale: Honi Comes Full Circle for the Jewish Birthday of the Trees
Questions:
For All Learners:
Pay attention to the characters’ facial expressions. What emotions do you think they’re experiencing? Try watching the video without sound to help focus on their expressions and body language.
How do you feel when someone does something just for you?
How do you show others that you care about them?
For Adult Learners:
What did your parents or elders "plant" for you, and how does that impact you?
What are you planting now for those you love and future generations?
Text 2: Ecological Tikkun Olam
"It is not your responsibility to finish the work of perfecting the world, but you are not free to desist from it either."
– Rabbi Tarfon, Pirkei Avot 2:21
Tu B’Shevat also calls on us to engage in ecological tikkun olam—repairing the world.
Questions:
What needs to be "healed" in the environment today?
What emotions arise as you think about this?
What is one step you can take to help repair the environment?
Activities for Mindfulness and Self-Management
Nature-Inspired Breathing Exercises
Mindfulness can help learners of all ages manage strong emotions.
For All Learners:
Sit comfortably and close your eyes. Visualize a serene place in nature—such as a forest trail, a serene lake, or the beach at sunset.
Inhale deeply through your nose for a count of five, filling your belly and then your chest. Hold for two counts.
Slowly exhale for a count of five, releasing tension from your body.
Repeat this cycle three times, then return to natural breathing, noticing any changes in how you feel.
For Younger Learners:
Introduce "belly breathing" by asking children to place their hands on their bellies and feel the gentle rise and fall as they inhale and exhale.
Breathing Exercises for Kids | Belly Breathing with Stuffed Animal
Providing Perspective and Awe: A Mindful Walk
This Tu B’Shevat, honor the New Year for the Trees by stepping outside and immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural world. Whether it’s a hike through a forest or a stroll around your neighborhood, take this time to notice and appreciate the environment around you.
What to Observe
1. The Trees
Notice their shapes, sizes, and textures.
Observe the way the branches reach for the sky or how the bark tells a story of resilience.
Look for signs of life—new buds, flowers, or leaves—and reflect on their journey through the seasons.
2. The Animals
Listen for birdsong, watch squirrels dart between trees, or notice insects moving along the ground.
Pay attention to how these creatures interact with the environment, reminding us of the interconnectedness of all living things.
3. The Sky
Look up! Observe the clouds, the way the sunlight filters through the leaves or the colors of the sunset.
Reflect on how the sky connects us to the vastness of the universe and our place in it.
Ways to Make It Meaningful
Practice Gratitude: Pause to give thanks for the natural beauty you see and the resources trees provide—clean air, shade, and fruit.
Be Present: Use this walk as a mindfulness practice. Breathe deeply and tune into the sights, sounds, and sensations around you.
Leave No Trace: If you notice any litter, consider picking it up as a small act of tikkun olam (repairing the world).
Reflect After Your Walk
Nature has a way of sparking awe, grounding us while also reminding us we’re part of something bigger than ourselves. After your walk, take a few minutes to jot down your thoughts or talk with someone about what you noticed and felt. What surprised or inspired you? How might this connection to nature encourage you to care for the Earth in the coming year?