Inspirational speaker and teacher HeatherAsh Amara, author of the bestselling book Warrior Goddess Training. The Catholic observance of Lent began March 1. Traditionally, Catholics perform a kind of self-denial during Lent by choosing to give up something they love during the 40 days leading up to Easter as an act of penance. this observance is growing in popularity, and they are making it more about self-realization. Amara, who has undertaken several 40 day disciplines in the last several years, including, 40 days of getting up at 4:00am to meditate, and 40 days of no sugar or caffeine.

         Why sacrifice is a great gift ~ whether you commit to giving up something you love or offering up a service to someone for 40 days, you will discover what you are really made of.         The importance of intention ~ we often think of restraint or discipline as a kind of punishment or austerity, but in truth discipline that stems from love.         What to do with resistance ~ what you choose to give or to give up should be somewhat difficult to do for 40 days, so you will be challenged. Doubt will seep in. How do you overcome that resistance?         The added benefit of shared sacrifice ~ finding a group to make the same commitment can help.         Examples:   Go on an opinion fast and keep your opinion to yourself for 40 days.    If you are one who feels you are generally a doormat, commit to saying ‘no’    Do one nice thing for someone anonymously