Course Description

In the Old Testament, the prophet Daniel chose to abstain from the rich foods of the Babylonian king's table, which was fruitful for both his spiritual growth and his bodily health.  This course is designed for Catholics who want to grow closer to God, while learning how to live a lifestyle that nurtures the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.  Using a Trinitarian Model of Health, each week participants will learn about one of the pillars of lifestyle medicine, as well as how to use elements of positive psychology, infused with spirituality.  In the first several weeks of Lent, individuals will prepare their heart, mind and body for a partial fast by establishing consistent prayer habits and slowly reducing processed foods, animal products, caffeine and alcohol. In the days prior to Easter, participants can choose to follow a 10-day or 21-day Daniel Fast, which allows unlimited whole plant foods and water, but avoids foods that harm our health.  If you have been looking for a way to move toward a more healthy lifestyle that helps you to fulfill your vocation and purpose, this program can help you move in that direction in a way that is anchored in faith.

Check with your doctor first.

Before starting any new health behavior change, such as this program, it is important to check with your doctor, especially if you have been previously diagnosed with a chronic disease or if you have special dietary needs, sensitivities or restrictions.  Guidance in this course can never replace personalized consultation with your healthcare provider.

Course curriculum

  1. Introduction to the Daniel Fast

  2. Ash Wednesday: Building Spiritual Foundations

  3. Week 1 (3/9-3/15): Plant-slant eating & Hydration

  4. Week 2 (3/16-3/22): Avoiding risky substances

  5. Week 3 (3/23-3/29): Physical Activity

  6. Week 4 (3/30-4/5): 21-day Start & Sleep

About this course

  • 7 Weeks of Guided Content
  • Morning Scripture Reflections & Prayer Journal
  • Nightly Examen & Gratitude Practice

The Daniel Fast

How does this partial-fast work?

  • Anchored in faith

    The primary goal is to grow closer to Christ using the prophet Daniel's approach: abstain from rich foods and focus on prayer and spiritual growth.

  • Increase whole plant foods

    Eat as much as you like of whole, unprocessed fruits & vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, and increase water intake.

  • Eliminate unhealthy foods

    Avoid foods that contribute to chronic disease such as animal products (meat, eggs & dairy), added sugar, oils, alcohol and caffeine.

Find transformation in spirit, mind & body

Journey through Lent to rejoice at Easter with a new appreciation of your body as a temple of the Holy Spirit.

What can you expect?

Grow in your faith while preparing to embrace your health as a gift to be used in fulfilling your purpose. Weekly videos and handouts will guide you through learning about how your lifestyle choices impact your health and your ability to live out your vocation. Content draws from evidence-based material from the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, as well as positive psychology tools known to improve well-being, according to research.

  • You'll begin by establishing a consistent routine of prayer and spiritual reflection, guided by Scripture and engagement with the sacraments & adoration.

  • You'll start increasing water intake and whole plant foods, while slowly decreasing foods that are not part of the Daniel Fast, such as meat, dairy, alcohol & caffeine.

  • You'll also learn about other areas of lifestyle medicine & positive psychology, such as physical activity, sleep, stress management and social connection, as well as gratitude.

  • Connect with others in the program through an online community where you can support each other in prayer and practical discussion of what you're learning.

Pricing options

Choose the regular program to do the fast independently, with access to the course and an online community. Or add 3 personalized 30-minute coaching sessions with a personalized diet assessment, by choosing the program + coaching.

Instructor

Michele Suhie, PhD, NBC-HWC, DipACLM

Michele is a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach and Certified Lifestyle Medicine Professional, specializing in the integration of lifestyle medicine, positive psychology and religion/spirituality. She is also an adjunct professor, teaching courses in pathophysiology and lifestyle medicine to undergraduate exercise science students. Michele has completed advanced practice training in mindfulness-based strengths practice with the VIA Institute, as well as advanced catechist training with the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland.