Today is Ash Wednesday which means it's the first day of Lent. Its official name is 'Day of Ashes', so called because of the practice of rubbing ashes on one's forehead in the sign of a cross.
It marks the first day of fasting, repentance, prayer and self-control. Luxury or rich foods such as meat and dairy are often avoided by those taking part in Lent. Also abstention from personal 'bad habit's such as watching television or eating too much sugar is also commonly practised.
