The seven-week period between the holiday of Passover (celebrating our liberation from Egypt) and the holiday of Shavout (celebrating our receiving the Torah at Mt. Sinai) is known as Sefirat HaOmer, the Counting of the Omer. Traditionally, this is a time set aside for personal self-discovery and growth. People often engage in the weekly study of middot (ethical character traits) including honor, silence, compassion, generosity, awe, simplicity and trust. 
 
This year during the Counting of the Omer, the Jewish Mindfulness Center of St. Louis invites you to participate in our 5th Annual 50-Day Meditation and Middot Challenge, including brand new middot to help us grow and stretch spiritually. Challenge yourself to meditate for at least 10 minutes every day and engage in at least one new practice a week to actualize these middot in your life. 
 
This year the period of the Omer begins on Saturday, April 16 and culminates with Shavuot on Saturday, June 4. Sign up to receive a weekly email that includes teachings on each middah, along with an audio meditation to help you with your daily practice.