Hey earth muffins, happy Fat Tuesday! ๐ Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday, which marks the start of the Lenten season. I’ve always loved Lent, as it gives me time to reflect on my life and strengthen the areas that I value most. Plus, it means Easter and spring are just around the corner – definitely helps me power through the last few weeks of winter and busy season at work. In today’s post I will be sharing my tips on how you can have a sustainable Lent this year. Let’s jump right into it!
1. Give up something that is not-so-eco-friendly.
It is custom for people to give up something if you celebrate Lent. In the past I have given up things like YouTube, desserts, social media, etc. The season is a time to improve your relationship with God – but also to improve your life as well! It is one thing to give something up for 40 days because your religion tells you to; it is another to choose an unhealthy habit that you want to continue to avoid once Lent is over. I always try to pick something that I know has been hurting my life or my relationship with God – it is easier to force myself to go cold turkey when I have a legit reason to stop doing it altogether! This year, I challenge you to find a not-so-eco-friendly habit of yours and give it up for Lent (and maybe for good). It doesn’t have to be something big; remember, every small change helps!
2. Stop eating meat AND fish.
During Lent, most people avoid eating meat on Fridays. Cue the season of fish sandwich advertisements at fast food restaurants! ๐ Another great way to have a sustainable Lent is to not only avoid meat on Fridays but to avoid it altogether during the 40 days. It is obviously better for the planet to follow a plant based diet, so this could be a great way to push yourself to reduce your impact on Mother Earth. If you are a pescetarian already, I suggest cutting out fish from your diet this Lent! I eat fish only occasionaly now, but here’s why you should stop eating so much fish regardless.
3. Challenge yourself to do something for the planet.
You don’t have to give something up for Lent – instead, you can decide to do something throughout the 40 days. This year, try to do something that will benefit the earth! Pick up litter in your neighborhood each week. Voluteer for an eco-friendly organization in your area. Spend time sorting through donations at a local food bank or thrift store. The options are endless! It is one thing to say you are sustainable but another to actually speak with your actions. ๐
4. Prepare for a sustainable Easter!
Easter is such a fun holiday… And you don’t have to kill the planet to celebrate! Take the time to prep and plan for your celebrations this year so that you can reduce your impact as much as possible. Check out my full guide on how to have a zero waste Easter! My favorite tips include thrifting your spring decor and avoiding plastic Easter grass at all costs.
Final Thoughts
So, as you finish up your Paczkis today it is important to look ahead at how to make sure you have a sustainable Lent! While the season is rooted in religion, it can stretch further than that into all aspects of your life – including sustainable living. This Lent, try to give up something that isn’t very eco-friendly. Throughout the 40 days you will create better habits that aren’t as bad for the planet. Don’t forget to make plans for a zero waste Easter as well! What will you be doing this Lent? Comment below your tips for having a sustainable Lent!
Love,
Jenna โฅ
