Open Waters Mikveh

Preparing at Home for Your Immersion

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​Before immersing in the Mikveh, please take the following steps to ensure there are no barriers between the water and your body:

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• Remove all jewelry (including rings, earrings, and piercings)

• Remove contact lenses

• Remove any dental appliances (such as false teeth, bridges, etc.)

• Take off all make-up

• Remove nail polish and acrylic nails

• Clean nails and cuticles thoroughly

• Remove band-aids and any remaining adhesive

• Shower or bathe completely

• Shampoo your hair (but do not use conditioner)

• Clean all body crevices, including:

  • Ears

  • Pierced areas (ears, nose, etc.)

  • Corners of your eyes

  • Navel

• Blow your nose thoroughly

• Brush and floss your teeth

• Soften scabs and remove any dried blood

• Check for dry or loose skin on knees, elbows, and feet

• Comb your hair to remove all tangles

• Remove any unattached loose hair

• Use the toilet before immersing

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These steps help ensure that your immersion is complete and free of any physical barriers.

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In addition, See Kavanot (meditative intentions) that may be helpful to you as you prepare at home here

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