Menucha Talks podcast

The Tightrope Myth

11/11/2026
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The Tightrope Myth - A Torah and Neuropsychology perspective on the secret of balance in motherhood

In this episode of Menucha Talks, we explore the beautiful idea of balance through the Kabbalistic concepts of Mashpia (giving and productivity) and Mekabel (receiving and restoring). We look at how these two forces shape our everyday lives, why leaning too heavily towards constant doing can leave us burnt out, and why learning to receive, rest and recharge is just as important as what we contribute.

This is especially relevant during pregnancy and early motherhood, when the physical and emotional demands can be overwhelming. There can be pressure to keep achieving, alongside the feeling that we have lost our former sense of identity and productivity. But perhaps this is a time when we need to give ourselves permission to lean more towards rest, soothing and recovery — recognising that growing and caring for a baby is itself an enormous contribution.

Through personal experience, Torah perspectives and practical tools, Michal Smith helps us explore how to recognise what we need, how to rebalance when one side is taking over, and how to bring more compassion into the way we approach our expectations of ourselves.

Tune in to Menucha Talks for a refreshing perspective on balance — and discover why it isn't about standing still on a tightrope, but learning to dance between doing and receiving.

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