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Coping Mechanisms: A Second Look

In contemporary psychology, coping mechanisms refer to strategies or behaviors individuals use to manage stress, adversity, or emotional pain. These mechanisms can be adaptive, helping people navigate challenges constructively, or maladaptive, potentially exacerbating their difficulties. Common coping mechanisms include seeking social support, engaging in physical activities, or distracting oneself with entertainment. While these strategies can provide temporary relief, they often address only the symptoms rather than the root causes of one's distress.


In Chabad philosophy, this concept may align with the terms chitzoniyus (externalities) and pnimiyus (inner essence). Chitzoniyus represents a focus on the outer aspects of life, including material pursuits and superficial distractions. While engaging in chitzoniyus can offer short-term comfort, it often fails to address deeper, spiritual needs. This is analogous to relying on coping mechanisms that provide temporary respite but do not resolve underlying issues.


Pnimiyus, on the other hand, emphasizes the inner essence and true purpose of an individual. It is about cultivating a deep, meaningful connection with one's soul and with God. In Chabad thought, true healing and fulfillment come from engaging with pnimiyus, which involves introspection, spiritual growth, and a commitment to one's values and purpose. This inner work is seen as the path to genuine, lasting well-being.


When faced with challenges, Chabad teachings encourage individuals to look beyond chitzoniyus and seek pnimiyus. This means not merely coping with difficulties through external distractions but addressing them through spiritual and emotional introspection. Practices such as prayer, Torah study, and performing mitzvot (commandments) are seen as ways to connect with pnimiyus, providing a more profound and enduring source of strength and resilience.


In summary, while coping mechanisms suggest a focus on managing external symptoms of distress, Chabad philosophy advocates for a deeper, more holistic approach. By shifting focus from chitzoniyus to pnimiyus, individuals can find true healing and fulfillment, rooted in spiritual growth and inner connection.

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The team behind Beaches Catering have been around for a couple of decades now, so they know a thing or two about changing trends.

One thing they’ve noticed lately is the move to a scaled-down affair when it comes to functions, where the focus is on what is being celebrated, rather than how.

“Clients have different priorities. Those who want to have grand functions, it’s with the greatest of pleasure that we work with them to create this,” owner Michael Atlas shared. “But because we’ve seen a more scaled-down trend lately, we’ve created the Island of Appetisers.”

It’s a more cost-effective solution and offers different cuisines from all over the world with chefs on hand at each station to serve guests. While it’s certainly more price conscious, it doesn’t take away from the quality and presentation of the food.

“Our goal is to ensure the client feels like that are a guest at their simcha,” Atlas explained.

“We take away the stress on the day, we take complete charge, and we go from A to Z.”

Beaches can take care of everything, down to the drinks and the linen, to ensure clients are getting the best bang for their buck and are cared for throughout the entire process.

For the team at Beaches, it’s all about ensuring the vision of their clients is translated into beautiful menus, stress-free functions, and cost-effective catering.

The team behind Beaches Catering have been around for a couple of decades now, so they know a thing or two about changing trends.

One thing they’ve noticed lately is the move to a scaled-down affair when it comes to functions, where the focus is on what is being celebrated, rather than how.

“Clients have different priorities. Those who want to have grand functions, it’s with the greatest of pleasure that we work with them to create this,” owner Michael Atlas shared. “But because we’ve seen a more scaled-down trend lately, we’ve created the Island of Appetisers.”

It’s a more cost-effective solution and offers different cuisines from all over the world with chefs on hand at each station to serve guests. While it’s certainly more price conscious, it doesn’t take away from the quality and presentation of the food.

“Our goal is to ensure the client feels like that are a guest at their simcha,” Atlas explained.

“We take away the stress on the day, we take complete charge, and we go from A to Z.”

Beaches can take care of everything, down to the drinks and the linen, to ensure clients are getting the best bang for their buck and are cared for throughout the entire process.

For the team at Beaches, it’s all about ensuring the vision of their clients is translated into beautiful menus, stress-free functions, and cost-effective catering.

Hamerkaz Sydney

"Without flour, there is no Torah" 

           - Mishna Avot

Hamerkaz Sydney

"Without flour, there is no Torah" 

           - Mishna Avot

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