Using Lent to Start Healthy Habits – a time to dedicate to improving you

Feb 22, 2023 | Being Kind to Yourself

Lent, the 40 days leading up to Easter can be a great time to start a healthy habit. Why not use this time to create a healthier you instead of using it as a period of self-denial.

Lent is a period of 40 days leading up to Easter, observed by many Christians around the world. It is traditionally a time of prayer, penance, and self-denial, during which people give up something they enjoy as a sacrifice. However, it can also be a great time to start a healthy habit.

Approximately 13 years ago, I was faced with new diagnosis – hypothyroidism. Eventually, it would become Hashimoto Hypothyroidism. My doctor informed me that the only way to truly treat hypothyroidism would be through my diet – introducing more fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, but also going gluten free and eliminating dairy completely. He challenged me to go ahead and do my research.

I did, and learned he was correct. It was something that I could control – my relationship with food. It would have to become my medicine.

Yet, I still needed to test what he was telling me and what I was reading. So, I decided to give it a try.

During Lent.

I can honestly say that for many of the new changes with my diet, I did not go back after the 40 days.

If you are willing make a change in your life, to get healthy, for you, this is a good time to improve your health and well-being. The intention is not to just give up something to give up something for a “diet,” but to actually make a change to life a healthier and cleaner lifestyle.

Here are a few reasons why Lent is a good time to start a healthy habit:

  1. It’s a dedicated period of time

Lent is a dedicated period of time, which is perfect for starting a new habit. Research has shown that it takes around 21 days to form a new habit, and Lent lasts for 40 days. This means that by the end of Lent, you will have had plenty of time to establish your new healthy habit.

  1. It’s a time of reflection

Lent is a time of reflection and self-improvement. By starting a healthy habit during this period, you are showing that you are committed to improving your health and well-being. It’s a great way to connect with your spirituality and focus on making positive changes in your life.

  1. It can help you give up something unhealthy

During Lent, many people choose to give up something they enjoy as a sacrifice. This could be something like chocolate or alcohol. By replacing this unhealthy habit with a healthy one, you can make positive changes to your life and feel better about yourself.

  1. It can improve your overall health

Starting a healthy habit during Lent can improve your overall health. Whether you choose to start exercising, eating more fruits and vegetables, or meditating, you will be making positive changes that will benefit your body and mind.

  1. It can create a sense of community

Many people observe Lent as a community, whether it’s through their church or with family and friends. Starting a healthy habit during this time can create a sense of camaraderie and support as you work towards your goals together.

Like I stated above, after my 40 days, I did not go back to some of my old, unhealthy habits. I felt like a new person. I lost the feeling of bloating, my headaches disappeared, I had more energy and less brain fog. The bonus was that I lost 7 pounds!

No only during those 40 days, I saw the change in my physical health, there was a change in my mental and emotional health. I was able to reflect on the good things and was able to be more present for my family and friends.

Lent is a great time to start a healthy habit. Whether you want to improve your physical health, mental well-being, or spiritual connection, starting a healthy habit during this dedicated period of time can be a great way to make positive changes in your life.

So why not give it a try this year and see how it can benefit you?