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According to Byzantine tradition, the discipline of the fast consists of three parts:
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Corporal (bodily) fast, by which we give up certain foods, drinks and amusements, in order to break the hold that such things may have over us.
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Spiritual or internal fast, by which we seek to turn from any sin, wickedness or evil habits in our lives, so that we may come into God's presence well-prepared to celebrate our Lord's Resurrection and our redemption.
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Spiritual renewal, by which we seek a greater practice of the virtues, a deeper life of prayer, repentance for our sins, and a greater conversion (metanoia) of heart, which manifests itself in good works. All of these are oriented to a deeper union with God – theosis.
The Lenten discipline is summarized in the Prayer of Saint Ephrem the Syrian.
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