On the first of Shevat in the year 2488 from creation, Moses convened the Jewish people and began the 37-day "review of the Torah" contained in the Book of Deuteronomy, which he concluded on the day of his passing on Adar 7 of that year.
Today is Rosh Chodesh (“Head of the Month”) for the month of Shevat.
Special portions are added to the daily prayers: Hallel (Psalms 113-118) is recited -- in its "partial" form -- following the Shacharit morning prayer, and the Yaaleh V'yavo prayer is added to the Amidah and to Grace After Meals; the additional Musaf prayer is said (when Rosh Chodesh is Shabbat, special additions are made to the Shabbat Musaf). Tachnun (confession of sins) and similar prayers are omitted.
Many have the custom to mark Rosh Chodesh with a festive meal and reduced work activity. The latter custom is prevalent amongst women, who have a special affinity with Rosh Chodesh -- the month being the feminine aspect of the Jewish Calendar.
Links:
The Jewish Month of Shevat
The Laws of Rosh Chodesh
How Does a Jewish Woman Celebrate Rosh Chodesh?
Between the brain and the heart lies a narrow strait called the neck.
This neck presents a major challenge, because the brain must ponder very deeply to squeeze its thoughts through such tight passage and reach the heart below.
But it is also a great advantage, because when the heart is thrown to and fro by the mighty rapids of life, spinning in circles from the turbulence of desire and fear, the brain can still observe from its perch high above the rapids and direct the heart back on course.