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Commit to be Fit: Lent is the perfect time to practice discipline
The snow has melted and it won’t be long before we see green buds on trees and blooms in our garden. A promise of new life is on the way.
Speaking of new life, Easter is a little over six weeks away. On Wednesday, Christians around the world celebrated Ash Wednesday to begin the transformative season of Lent. This season represents the time Jesus went into the desert to reflect, contemplate and pray before his return to Jerusalem. In reverence to Jesus’ journey, Christians often abstain from overindulgence of food/drink, make an attempt to pray more and concentrate on being generous with their time, talents or money.
Whatever your faith tradition, whether it’s the reflective season of Lent, or the earnest desire for transformation, may you find inspiration for personal growth during this time. Flexing one’s discipline muscle for a given period of time is a wonderful exercise, especially if there is a higher purpose devoted to the sacrifice. Also, when we refrain from something that we don’t feel good about doing, we make time for something better.
One does not have to be of a certain faith denomination to recognize how abstinence can positively impact self-growth and development. Abstaining from overindulging can serve as a frequent reminder of your intention for growth. For example, if you decline a favorite food or drink, you can use that moment to say a quick prayer (especially for the people of Ukraine and peace in our world) or choose to give thanks for your many blessings.
Just as you take time to “spring clean” your home, these six weeks provide a wonderful opportunity for a little spring cleaning of your mind, body and soul. This does not have to have a religious/spiritual agenda. I guess what I’m really trying to say is, don’t let the special time of spring pass you by. Be awake for it.
Here are some meaningful ways to observe the holy season of Lent, or the beginning of a new season:
Commit to refraining from:
- Gossip
- Negative self-talk
- Alcoholic beverages
- Social media/TV/phone
- Lying (including to yourself)
- Second helpings
- Gambling/any addiction
- Profanity
Commit to adding positive and healthy activities during this time:
- Starting a gratitude journal
- Excercising daily
- Adding Yoga or stretching
- Doing meditation
- Starting a journal
- Eating healthy snacks
- Learning something new
- Attending church or temple, or developing a prayer practice
Commit to focusing on others:
- Visit or call a neighbor or someone who would enjoy your company
- Call your parents, children or a friend and be a good listener
- Write notes to a friend, loved one, mentor or someone in the armed services
- Teach someone something new
- Be patient
- Donate clothes or other goods to those who need them
- Donate money to a charity
- Choose to notice positive qualities in others
Our mind, intentions and prayers are powerful beyond measure. May the new life of spring inspire your personal growth this season.
Kylie Alger is a certified wellness coach and co-owner of the Well-Woman: Body, Mind & Spirit. Comments: kylie@thewellwoman.org
Kylie Alger is a certified wellness coach and co-owner of the Well-Woman: Body, Mind & Spirit. (Kylie Alger)
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