Yom Kippur 101: A Friendly, Useful Guide

Yom Kippur (יוֹם כִּפּוּר), the Day of Atonement, is the heart of the Jewish year—a full reset for the soul. It’s reflective and deep, but it doesn’t have to feel intimidating. Think less “to-do list,” more “who do I want to be this year?”

What’s the day about?

• Focus: Teshuvah—honest self-review, apologizing where needed, forgiving others (and ourselves), and choosing better habits for the year ahead.

• The flow: Evening opens with Kol Nidre, the day is filled with prayer and reflection, and it closes with Ne’ilah (the “closing of the gates”) just before nightfall.

• Five traditional “no’s”: No eating or drinking (the fast), no leather shoes, no bathing, no lotions/perfume, and refraining from marital intimacy—quieting the body so the heart can focus.

• What people wear: Many wear white (purity/renewal) and simple, non-leather shoes.

• How to greet: “G’mar Chatima Tova” (may you be sealed for good) or “Tzom Kal” (have an easy fast).
  
  
  

Fast-Smart: Practical, Healthy Tips

Always follow medical and rabbinic guidance. If you’re pregnant, nursing, have a health condition (e.g., diabetes), take medications, or have any concerns—consult your doctor and rabbi. Health comes first.

A few days before

• Taper caffeine to avoid withdrawal headaches.

• Hydrate steadily (water and water-rich foods). Don’t leave hydration to the last hour.

• Sleep well—rested bodies fast more comfortably.

Pre-fast meal (Erev Yom Kippur)

• Build a balanced plate: complex carbs (rice, potatoes, whole grains), lean protein, and healthy fats (avocado, olive oil).

• Go easy on salt, spice, and sugar to prevent thirst, reflux, or crashes.

• Finish drinking ahead of time—slow and steady is better than last-minute chugging.
  
  
  

During the fast

• Pace yourself. Sit when you need, rest between services, minimize exertion.

• Listen to your body. Dizziness, faintness, palpitations, or other warning signs = take action and break the fast if medically necessary.

Breaking the fast

• Start gentle: water first, then a small bite (dates, a banana, or light soup).

• Then a meal: balanced and moderate—your stomach will thank you.

• Rehydrate over the next several hours.

Make it meaningful (and human)

• Apologize proactively. A quick message or call goes a long way.

• Journal one promise. Pick one realistic habit to grow this year.

• Give a little tzedakah. Charity before or after the fast sets a generous tone.

• Show up for Ne’ilah. The closing moments often feel electric and uplifting.

From all of us at Oytiot: G’mar Chatima Tova—wishing you clarity, compassion, and sweet beginnings. After you break the fast, you’re welcome to browse our Jewish Holidays designs for a meaningful season refresh.

Before you go, explore our Tishrei Collection—now featuring Yom Kippur designs alongside the season’s favorites.