Ritual immersion is an ancient Jewish tradition.  Historically, immersion was required of post-menstrual women, brides and converts to Judaism. Priests also immersed before Temple rituals, and some men before Shabbat and Yom Kippur.

Today the mikvah is still used for conversions and brides, but can also be used to mark milestones or important life-cycle events. Some use ritual immersion as part of their grieving process, or to help heal after emotional or physical trauma as well.