Tag: olim
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Things that make us happy
Sonja Lyubomirsky from the University of California has done some interesting research comparing people who describe themselves as happy or unhappy. She found that 40 per cent of our happiness is within our power to change! Lyubomirsky identified 12 scientifically robust ways in which we act and think that naturally enhance happiness. 1) Express gratitude. 2) Cultivate optimism: Lyubomirsky suggests imagining…
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How can I be happier?
When we think forward or look back, we often reflect on how happiness fits into our lives. The pursuit of happiness is one of the most common goals of new psychotherapy clients. “I just want to be happy” is a well-heard phrase. So how can we be happier? What does the research say? Hannah Booth, of the…
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Aliyah and Identity: ‘The heartache of two homelands’
Perhaps only migrating birds know– Suspended between earth and sky– The heartache of two homelands. —Leah Goldberg, 1970 Leah Goldberg’s poem ‘Pine’ poignantly captures the ambivalent position of many Olim caught between two countries and two identities. For many, negotiation of a more complex, integrated identity that sits between two cultures is realisable.…
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Tips for a stress-free chag
The chagim can be a wonderful break from routine; an opportunity to spend time with family, eat good food, take a look back at the year gone past and look forward to the year to come. Of course, it is not always and for everyone the celebratory experience we would hope for. Dr Darnel, a Psychiatrist…
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How can I get help in Israel as an English speaker?
As an English speaker living in Israel life can be exciting and exhilarating! But sometimes the pressure of living within a new culture can become a little too much and we can become overwhelmed by the ‘Aliyah rollercoaster’! In any case finding help and locating resources in a foreign language and culture is difficult,…
Dr. Lisa Law, ClinPsyD 