During Tashlich, we are outside, close to nature (the water, the sun) and to God, with the ability to look up and see the heavens. Traditionally, we hold a small piece of bread that represents all of our sins, and the water takes those sins away from us. It is not a cure but a reprieve, a chance for us to work on our spiritual healing in the coming year.  

 However, this year for Tashlich, we will be casting small pebbles into a nearby stream, as a symbolic gesture of removing our sins. By using small pebbles, we are being more environmentally conscious and protecting both plants & animals.