Teacher Spotlight — Jes Heppler, Jewish Meditation

If you've been meaning to sign up for Jes's Virtual Jewish Meditation class, June is your last chance! After Jes finishes teaching at RUACH (with door always wide open for a next teaching chapter), they will be returning to Berkeley to continue their academic work in philosophy.

We were grateful to have a moment to catch up with Jes around their teaching and personal meditation practice.

What makes Jewish Meditation "Jewish"?

Judaism has a rich tradition of contemplative practices that draw especially from Hasidic texts and practices of kabbalah. These traditions all draw on the foundations of our tradition that direct us to orient our awareness in specific ways. Jewish meditation classes incorporate Jewish texts and are shaped by these teachings.

What does meditation bring you in your life? 

Meditation has fundamentally changed what it is like to be me. Being in my mind and body is a different experience from when I began practicing seriously over five years ago. It has made me more comfortable (and equanimous) in exploring all the different sensations and feelings that come with having a body. It's made me calmer and more regulated in general and in relationships/friendships. I think it's also allowed me to be more of myself: my compassion and chesed (lovingkindness) practices have made it easier to see and feel the goodness and wholeness inherent in myself and in everyone. This isn't to say I'm perfect, of course. Like everyone, I get dysregulated, I get irritated, I procrastinate. But when I'm having a difficult time, I know formal and informal practice can bring me back to clear and loving ways of seeing and being. 

For those who have never tried meditation before, what should someone expect from your class? Do you have any advice for them?

I always gauge the level and experience of folks who join my classes at RUACH, so you can expect this class to meet you exactly where you are. If you've never meditated before or think you're "bad at meditating" (which is impossible!), we will start by focusing on working with an anchor like the breath or the sensation of the ground beneath you in a loving, calm, and curious way. You might be surprised at just how much there is to explore here. You can also expect blessing practice as well as Jewish teachings to ground our specific practice for the day. My advice is to come with an open mind, or if that's difficult to have, then a willingness to explore doubt. Curiousity and a willingness to see what happens is all you need. 

What have you enjoyed about teaching at RUACH?

It's amazing that the Boston area has the only in-person Jewish meditation & movement space and it's been wonderful to be part of the community. I also am very honored to get to be alongside an incredible line-up of teachers!

What have you been reading or listening to that’s inspiring you recently?

When I'm not listening to lofi beats when I'm working on my dissertation, I've been revisiting Adrienne Lenker and Ali Dineen recently. 

Jes will also be leading a silent Jewish mindfulness retreat for young adults this August through the Institute for Jewish Spirituality. Learn more here. Smooth sailing this summer, Jes, and thank you for everything!!