Fasting, in general, is a form of self-denial and most often refers to abstention from food. In a spiritual fast, such as during Lent, the purpose is to show restraint and self-control. It is a spiritual discipline intended to allow each person to focus more closely on their relationship with God without the distractions of worldly desires.

Things to give up for Lent:

• Fast from screen time (only go on when it is work-related). Perhaps allow yourself to go on the screen (phone, computer, video games, etc.) for as much as you want, but it will cost you 25 cents a minute (or whatever will make you think twice before spending lots of time on the screen). Give the money to a good cause (see below for almsgiving suggestions).
• Pick one day for a very strict fast – eat only bread or a small bowl of rice with water and tea – 3 times per day.
• Ash Wednesday, and Good Friday are obligatory days for fasting (applies to people aged 18 to 60 years old) which means limiting the amount of food eaten and abstinence (applies to people aged 14 to 60 years old) which means not eating meat on those days. All Fridays in Lent are obligatory to abstain from meat, fasting is recommended but not required. However, you can also prepare more meatless meals during weekdays. Try to engage your whole family in preparing simple meals.
• If you catch yourself thinking or speaking negatively, complaining, charge yourself a dollar each time and give the proceeds to a good cause.
• If children like to play video games, have them use their allowance, for example, 50 cents per 5 minutes and to give to a good cause. They can make their own decisions and play as much as they want but it will cost them. This is a good practice to be aware of how much time they spend on screen time and teach them to control it.
• For each YouTube or Twitter or any little video you watch on the phone or computer, charge yourself a dollar and give to the poor. It will cost you every time you flick your finger to watch a new short video. We are always looking to be entertained or occupied and waste time which could be spent with God. Maybe if you have a prayer or religious site on your phone or screen, you can be free from payment. Make your own decision what will motivate you.
• No sugar, milk, or cream in your hot drinks.
• Choose a carrot or celery stick rather than sweet goodies.
• No salt, no pepper added to your meals.
• No sauces, ketchup included.
• No pop or sweet drinks, choose water.
• No snacking between meals.