Women’s Event Addresses PPD

By Yettel Zylbernagel

Jewish women of all ages gathered for a delicious taste of nourishment- physically, emotionally, and spiritually in a unique event in Crown Heights arranged by the SPARKS organization.

Graciously hosted by Miriam Friedfertig and sponsored by Moishy and Shaindy Lax, participants were treated to a sushi-making demonstration by Sushi Tokyo, energizing smoothie demonstrations by GreenlipsFit and and music byShoshana Bander.

SPARKS president Esther Kenigsberg shared the message of nurturing oneself particularly for new moms, which the organization supports. “Postpartum Depression (PPD) should not be something to hide or be ashamed of, but rather the quicker the mother is helped, the quicker she will heal.”

The organization offers a confidential Helpline operated by trained professionals (with separate lines for women and men), a 24-hour Audio library, regular teleconference support groups, doctor referrals, and a Call and Connect line every Monday and Thursday between 12-1 for questions about bonding and parenting. The number to call is 718-2-SPARKS (718-277-2757).

“The more we speak openly that a women who just had a baby has no right to feel down, the more we will be supportive to that woman and her whole family. PPD is the only illness that directly affects both mother and baby, and when the mother is happy, the baby, her husband, and the whole family unit can function properly.”

The evening continued with Rabbi Chay Amar, Shliach to Golden Beach, FL, who uplifted the crowd by sharing his personal encounters with the Rebbe and how an unexpected answer transformed his way of maximizing time. He then shared that even as a busy shliach he makes a point in his day to stop, meditate and reflect to give himself energy to continue in his holy work.

As multitasking mothers, he reminded, it is crucial to give time to yourself and nurture both your body and spiritual side and let the neshama “breathe.” You can’t pour from an empty cup. You must first give yourself; only then you can successfully give and nurture others.

In this vein we would like to thank Tzivia Chaya Rosenthal and Basya Bracha Benjaminson for providing complementary Feldenkreis and traditional massage mini-sessions during the event.

This message was echoed by the final speaker, SPARKS therapist Miriam Yerushalmi, who showed a brief meditation video emphasizing forgiveness as the catalyst to strengthening ourselves and bonding with our children, for “we are all on our way to becoming a polished gem,” as the Rebbe mentioned, and one never gets tired of counting diamonds.

To volunteer, host an event, or to add your name to the database please call 718-277-2757 x6 or e-mail at [email protected].
“Like” SPARKS on facebook at Sparks Women’s-Health
Please visit SPARKS on the web (new website coming soon!) at www.sparkscenter.org and watch their YouTube documentary here.