Reality Star Hodaya Cohen Admits Breaking Yom Kippur Fast

Israeli reality television personality and model Hodaya Cohen revealed to her hundreds of thousands of social media followers that she broke her Yom Kippur fast this year, a departure from her usual practice. In a candid Instagram story, Cohen shared that the fast was particularly challenging, leading her to make an unusual decision.

"I have to say the fast was not easy for me at all, and I got through this fast with television," Cohen stated. She explained that while she typically observes the fast completely, she had previously broken it three years ago by eating and engaging in activities like watching TV and smoking. This year, she decided to allow herself to watch television due to the difficulty she experienced, but otherwise maintained the fast.

Cohen admitted to initial feelings of guilt but described how these emotions shifted towards pride as the day concluded. "I really felt bad about myself, and then when the fast ended, I felt pride. I was proud of myself for not giving up completely and for making my effort. I didn't eat, I didn't drink, I didn't smoke, I didn't touch my phone... Effort is what's important, effort and intention are what matter," she explained.

She concluded by wishing her followers well, saying, "I'm proud of myself! And well done to everyone who fasted, Gmar Chatima Tova" (a traditional blessing for the end of the High Holidays). Cohen's open sharing comes just weeks after the public announcement of her breakup with fellow "Big Brother" contestant Zohar Izik in late August, after a four-month public relationship.