In Catholic theology, mortification refers to the deliberate denial of self, a disciplined process of overcoming personal desires contrary to God's will. It's not about self-hate but about cooperating with divine grace to achieve spiritual growth. This self-denial, whether through fasting, prayer, or resisting temptation, allows the Holy Spirit to work more freely within the individual. It's a crucial aspect of moral transformation, a conscious choice to align one's actions and thoughts with God's law. Through mortification, the individual actively participates in their path to holiness, shaping their character and deepening their relationship with God. It's a path of purification, preparing the soul for a closer union with the divine.