MEET

Tova Markenson

“I don’t belong here,” was how I felt in Jewish spaces for a long long time. Then during one of Life’s Big Transitions, I had a gut feeling that I needed to explore Judaism further. And so began a slow process of returning to ancient rituals and stories that now feel like home.

For me, learning is a process of integrating mind, body, and soul.

My mind is often wrestling with questions about Judaism, feminism, queerness, and identity. Those questions led me to complete my PhD at Northwestern University, where my writing, teaching, and research focused on destigmatizing experiences in Jewish history that carry shame. I love hearing about the questions that Jewish text, tradition, and fundamentals bring alive for others.

My body is often full of complex feelings about this very broken world. One of my greatest joys has been learning to connect with my body through movement, prayer, silence, and song. To that end, I have designed and taught mindfulness in partnership with Jewish organizations nationally. I love working one-on-one with folks who wish to authentically integrate spirituality and wellness into their life.

My spirit comes alive through the practice of creativity. Recently, I have started writing, directing, and producing independent films. To me, creativity is a deeply spiritual – and deeply Jewish – practice. I am fascinated by how art can support justice work and lifecycle transitions.

I am an alumnus of Avodah: The Jewish Service Corps and Adamah: The Jewish Environmental Fellowship. I grew up in western Massachusetts and graduated from Carleton College. I live near the Hudson Valley and am a new parent to a very goofy, very gentle, very red-headed child.