A prayerful Lenten Season

During this season of Lent we are expected to undergo a metanoia or complete change of heart, i.e. to be willing to amend our sinful ways. Here are some guidelines to help you have a meaningful Lenten Season:
1. Praying - Set aside a special time for praying. You may go to the chapel or any quiet place to talk and listen to God or you may spend few minutes each day reading biblical passages.
2. Fasting - The code of Canon Law prescribes that Catholics between ages 18 to 59 are obliged to fast on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday while those who are 14 years old and above must abstain from meat during the above-mentioned days and on all the Fridays of Lent. However, it is important to take note that fasting does not only mean fasting from food. It also includes giving up a favorite TV show, anger and resentment, discontentment, bitterness and resentment, judging others, saying unkind words and anything that keeps you from being closer to God.
3. Doing charity works - Repentance is the main reason Christians commemorate Lent. You can show by serving and helping others. Forgiving others, listening and obeying your parents, teachers, elders, friends and everyone for that matter.
4. You may also reflect on the following questions: Do I take time each day to talk to God and listen to Him? What can I do to make myself a better person?

Practical tips to make your life easier

Make your life easier..how? Here' some hints and trick for you.

"Everyday write down something good that happened to you." Have a camera handy to record happenings in your home, preferably in your garden, if you have any. Set it in the same place and take photos of different times of day during summer. Let your kids make what they want for lunch or dinner, then serve it picnic-style outside..in the backyard, or even in a small space outside your house. If you plan to travel, toss your packing list into your suitcase, use it to recheck everything at the end of your stay.

Destress without food

There are plenty of healthy ways to reduce stress. Think about what makes you feel the most relaxed during your day, and go from there. For example: Write in a journal, I personally discovered that if you don't have an outlet in releasing your thoughts, writing is the best way. So start writing! Take a walk, go around the block in your office. Pray or meditate. Try a new hobby, make time for what you love doing!