A Day In the Month of Ramadan
Ramadan marks the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is a special time for Muslims worldwide. During this month, we fast, pray, reflect, and come together as a community. Fasting helps us connect spiritually and practice self-discipline while reminding us to empathize with those who are less fortunate. Islamic practices believe that our good deeds multiply during this holy month.
During Ramadan, we fast from dawn till dusk, breaking our fast at sunset and starting again before the sun rises. Here's a little bit about what my day looks like as a Muslim student fasting in the month of Ramadan :)
My day normally begins early in the morning, around 5 am to prepare for suhoor. Suhoor or Sehri is an early morning meal that is commonly eaten during Ramadan before dawn so that we can stay fueled for the following day of fasting. Since it's so early in the morning, I normally like to eat lighter foods, like yogurt or nuts that are still nutritious but not too heavy. I also try to drink a lot of water as it's important to keep hydrated since I won’t be able to drink anything the following day. Afterwards, I pray the dawn prayer, fajr, and go back to sleep until my alarm wakes me up for the day.
Throughout my day, I attend classes if it's in the week or do whatever as normal. I also make sure to complete the other prayers that fall in the daytime like Zuhr and Asr. I also try and set some time aside to read the Quran (our holy book).
When the evening approaches, I help my family prepare for Iftar, the meal we eat when we break our fast. Since Ramadan is a blessed month, and we haven't eaten for the whole day, we normally prepare more food than usual and a wide variety. Some foods are sunnah, or recommended to eat by our prophet, like kajoor (dates) and zam-zam water (holy water). I normally like to share food with others this month to spread community and the feeling of celebration, so I will often drop off plates of food to share with my friends and family. The act of giving, especially in Ramadan, is also counted as a reward and blessing!
Finally, at the time of maghrib, the evening prayer, it is time to break our fast. I break my fast with the dates and zam-zam water that was prepared earlier and recite the specific dua (prayer) said at this time. Then it's time to finally eat and enjoy Iftar dinner with my family! This month, iftar is normally around 7:30, so I finish eating quite late.
When I’m done eating, it is time for Taraweeh, a night prayer unique to the month of Ramadan. Taraweeh is usually read at the local masjids or mosques, where an imam recites a part of the holy Quran in salah. Throughout the month, it is a goal to finish a khatam (full recitation of the Quran), so this prayer is normally quite long. I'm normally only done at around 11 p.m., with it beginning around 9.
After this, I try to fit in a lighter workout, such as pilates, to keep up with my regular fitness routine and wellness during Ramadan. Although it may be late, staying active helps me feel energized and balanced.
This marks the end of my busy day as I’m then ready to relax and sleep to recharge for my next day of fasting! Ramadan can be challenging at times, but that's what makes it so rewarding. The support of my friends, family, and Muslim community makes me feel extra happy and grateful in this special month.
