Every September brings a sense of anticipation. Whether it’s a new school year or starting a new job, the season is moving from summer to fall and our days are getting busy and hectic. For some, the Jewish holidays mark this change pattern significantly by bringing in a new year.

Here are some tips based on the Jewish calendar we can all use for mindfully preparing for the changes that come with the autumnal season to help mark this transitional time of year in a meaningful way.

1. Carve out time for reflection
Take some time for reflecting on the year gone by. What have been the biggest challenges and the greatest joys? How did you grow? What did you accomplish?

2. Contemplate forgiveness
Are there relationships that need repair? Are there amends that need to be made or old wounds that still need healing? It’s not easy. Give it the time, attention and love that is needed so that when you arrive at Rosh Hashanah you feel ready for the new year.

3. Spend time in nature
This is such a beautiful time of year to notice the natural world around you. Take a walk, clear your head, and breathe in the fresh air. Take a hike and get a new vantage point.

4. Reconnect with friends and family
There is a custom to send New Year’s cards to friends and family before Rosh Hashanah. Reconnect with old friends by calling or sending a card with your well wishes for the New Year. Another custom is to check in about the relationships in your life.

5.  Set a practical intention  
We all have a tendency to set unrealistic and unattainable goals. This year, make one small change by acquiring a positive habit.

6. Do a ritual to make a fresh start
Jewish tradition, and many other traditions, are chock full of rituals to help you mark time in a meaningful way. Use a ritual from your faith or create a new one to mark this change in season and mindset.

Need info about the upcoming Jewish holidays? Check out InterfaithFamily’s High Holiday Guide, booklets and more by clicking here.

Want to learn more about practical wisdom and spirituality? Join Rabbi Sarah Tasman, Director of InterfaithFamily/DC and Gideon Culman, Professional Certified Coach for a 3 Part workshop series called Mastering Change. Visit the website to learn more.

Rabbi Sarah Tasman is the Director of InterfaithFamily/DC, which supports interfaith families exploring Jewish life. To learn more about the organization and upcoming programs, go to interfaithfamily.com/dc.

This post is brought to you by InterfaithFamily/DC presented in partnership with the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington.