Film star Jim Carrey is abstaining from vices and giving up his worldly possessions - in an attempt to exorcise his demons.

The BRUCE ALMIGHTY star is studying Chinese Taoism and has given up sex and spends hours in a trance on the porch of his home in Malibu, California - according to British tabloid THE DAILY STAR.

A friend says, "He's starving himself, practicing celibacy, giving up his worldly possessions and is basically turning into a monk."

Friends believe this approach to abstinence will enable the currently-single Carrey to find his 'real self' and his one true love.

Carrey, who has given up foods with wheat, sugar and diary products, says, "It's about sacrifice.

"It's about giving up things that keep you from feeling.

"I'm always asking, 'What am I going to give up next?' because I want to feel."

08/03/2004 09:57