Many individuals throughout the world will give up something for Lent, whether it’s social media, chocolate, or eating meat.
It’s the ideal moment to break any undesirable habits.
Lent is a significant occasion in the Christian calendar that begins on Ash Wednesday, the day following Shrove Tuesday, often known as Pancake Day.
Although you may give up anything for Lent, sugar is generally at the top of people’s lists, which is understandable if you’ve overindulged in sugary pancake sweets.
So, when does Lent begin this year, and when will you be able to reclaim your sweet treats?
Here’s what you should know.
When does Lent 2023 start?
Lent officially begins on Ash Wednesday, which this year falls on Wednesday, February 22. It is 46 days before Easter Sunday.
Lent formally begins on Ash Wednesday, which this year is February 22. It’s 46 days till Easter Sunday.
Because Easter shifts, the start date of Lent fluctuates each year.
That’s because (stick with us here, it’s a little tricky) Easter always occurs on the first Sunday after the first full moon following the first equinox of the year. (The equinox is when day and night are equal duration).
On Ash Wednesday, ashes created from palm crosses are blessed and used to mark crosses on people’s foreheads during church services, a tradition that dates back to the 10th century.
According to the Church of England website, these services’set the tone for Lent’ with’sombre readings and hymns with a focus on penitence – saying sorry and turning away from sin’.
The Bible makes no mention to Ash Wednesday, however the concept of ash stems from the Old Testament statement “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you must return” (Genesis 3:19).
Palm leaves are utilised because people are reported to have waved them at Jesus as he returned from his 40-day desert fast.
When does Lent end?
Lent lasts 40 days, which corresponds to the period Jesus is claimed to have fasted in the desert.
Yet, because Sundays do not qualify as ‘holy days’ (even though Lent is still practised on them), it really finishes 46 days after it began.
Lent will finish on Thursday, April 6, 2023, the day before Good Friday and the Easter weekend.
What can I give up for Lent?
Sugary beverages, chocolate, and ice cream are popular, and if you stick with Dry January, it may evolve into Dry Lent.
Another alternative is to go vegan, and you can also pick vegan make-up and skincare items.
But it’s not just about what you purchase or use; giving up gossip, obsessions, and negative thinking are all excellent measures to take, as is taking a break from social media if necessary.
For Lent, think on self-care and replacing negativity with positive acts to improve your health and wellness – take basic things like staying hydrated, or try something new like sound therapy for an emotional boost.