HELLO!
ABOUT ANNA
I am a wholehearted and lifelong reform Jewish British woman, lucky enough to have grown up and with an engaging and positively enriching reform Jewish community in London.
With deep connections to Jewish wisdom, rituals, prayer, and learning, since moving to Leeds 21 years ago, I have continued to contribute to progressive Jewish community and practice both within existing institutions and outside of them.
Since March 2020, I have been learning Mussar and am excited to share these wisdoms and practices through this project.
ABOUT MARCIA
I am the senior rabbi of Congregation Mishkan Tefila, in Brookline, MA.
I have studied and taught Mussar for 30 years. Mussar has transformed my life for the better, and I uses it every day to help rise to the challenges and joys of life. I lead Mussar groups several times a week online.
I lived in London for 25 years, and worked as the rabbi of Akiva School, North London Progressive Synagogue and Sha’arei Tzedek. I directed the Spiritual Formation program at Leo Baeck College, and also founded the Half Empty Bookcase; a national Jewish women’s organisation, and Neshamah: for The Soul, an organisation to open spiritual opportunities for others.
I currently live outside of Boston with my husband and children.
ABOUT GILLIAN
I was so excited to discover the practice of Mussar a few years ago at a learning conference of Jews from all over the world. I loved the way it drew deeply from traditional Jewish traditions and practices and yet felt entirely contemporary.
I have been part of progressive Jewish communities in London and Leeds for years, actively involved in education and learning and seeking to integrate Jewish mindfulness, meditation and learning in all I do. Mussar resonates at the heart of my soul as an artist, mother, wife, daughter and sister. I feel blessed to be part of SoulBalanceMussar.