Most people in the Jewish community know the rules and regulations to make a minyan. But, for those who don’t, allow me to elaborate. According to myjewishlearning.com, “minyan is the Hebrew word that describes the quorum of ten Jewish adults required for certain religious obligations.”
For many, the minyan has been a symbol of how important being part of a community is for the Jewish people. It is an actual obligation to be with others in the community to read from the Torah, grieve by saying Kaddish, and partake in other parts of daily services. To me, this is a great example of how the Jewish people have persevered with resilience and strength – because we have never done it on our own.
At the Gordon JCC, I see a lot of similarities between the duties of a minyan with what we do every day for our group exercise classes. I know what you’re thinking… but stay with me here.
People can join any gym they please to work out and stay fit. I believe the differentiating factor for the J is that no matter what you are doing here, you are doing it as part of the community. When you are a part of the J, you are a part of something bigger than yourself. You are part of a community that grows together, strengthens each other, learns and celebrates with one another side by side.
I believe that the same sense of community we get at a minyan in the pews is received when we are side by side on the ground in the plank position. Together, we make sure that our friends or family are not going through it alone. We are there to support each other.
If you’re looking for a sense of community in a private setting, I suggest you seek out one of our amazing group fitness classes. Whether it’s in the pool doing water aerobics with Kim or Gui, in the new Pilates studio testing your limits with Mary, Jen, or Janelle, or if you’re taking on a more traditional fitness class with George, Vicki, Karen, or another one of our amazing trainers, I think you will not only find yourself pleased with the exercise you are getting, but you’ll be equally fulfilled by the sense of community you are building together.
For more information about group fitness classes, you may contact Health and Wellness Director Harriet Shirley at harriet@nashvillejcc.org, or visit nashvillejcc.org/fitness-schedule.
As always, please feel free to contact me to chat about the J, our priorities and our mission. My email address is jesse@nashvillejcc.org, and you’re always welcome to swing by my office when you’re in the building.
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