Lent Therapy: A Discipline of Fasting, Prayer, and Meditation

Overview

Lent Therapy is a structured spiritual practice for the Lenten season that combines fasting, prayer, and meditation. It is designed to deepen one’s faith, build spiritual discipline, and promote inner renewal through intentional sacrifice and devotion.

Core Principles of Lent Therapy

1. Weekly 24-Hour Fast

• Once per week, participants undertake a full 24-hour fast (no food, only water or non-caloric beverages).
  
• This fasting period is meant for spiritual purification, self-discipline, and quiet reflection.
  

2. 7-Hour Overnight Prayer and Meditation

• Immediately following the weekly 24-hour fast, participants must complete a minimum 7-hour overnight session of prayer and meditation.
  
• This session should begin after the fast ends and include:
  
  • Prayer – Structured or personal, spoken or silent.
    
  • Meditation – Silent contemplation, breath work, scripture reflection.
    
  • Stillness and Listening – Remaining in quiet openness to divine presence.
    
  • Optional Journaling – Reflecting on spiritual insights or experiences.
    

3. Daily One-Meal Restriction

• On all non-fasting days during Lent, participants eat only one meal per day.
  
• Meals should be simple, unembellished, and nourishing, not indulgent or excessive.
  

4. Fast Extension for Missed Prayer Session

• If the required 7-hour overnight session is not completed after the fast, the fast continues until the prayer and meditation session is fulfilled.
  
• This ensures the practice remains spiritually centered rather than simply physical.
  

Purpose and Benefits

• Spiritual Depth – Extended periods of silence and prayer open space for divine encounter.
  
• Discipline – Consistent practice cultivates strength of will and intention.
  
• Inner Clarity – Fasting and meditation clear distractions and bring focus.
  
• Transformational Growth – The structure of Lent Therapy nurtures lasting spiritual renewal.
  

Lent Therapy is for those seeking more than just abstinence—it is for those desiring a profound, disciplined journey of faith throughout the Lenten season.