Now that the holy month is coming to end, we reflect on how fasting during Ramadan has had an impact on the spiritual and physical wellbeing of Muslims across the world.
For many Muslims around the world, the holy month of Ramadan is observed for 30 days during each year, followed by the festival of Eid-Al-Fitr. Throughout the month of Ramadan, Muslims are expected to fast from sunrise to sunset and abstain from the consumption of food, drinks, sexual activities (unless between a married couple) and anything that is considered ‘Haram’ or against the core principles of Islam.
Beyond shedding a few pounds and giving up bad habits such as smoking, there are several health benefits that Muslims will enjoy while fasting and after Ramadan. Read on to learn why fasting is good for the mind, body and soul.
Practicing Self-Discipline
Fasting for most of the day requires self-discipline and constant reflection on religious beliefs such as practicing gratitude for simple blessings that we may usually take for granted such as food.
Alongside fasting from food and drink, Muslims are required to stop listening to music, pray five times a day, give to charity, avoid any forbidden acts for 30 days in order for fasts to be accepted. If a Muslim successfully fulfils the requirements of Ramadan and is committed to following the rules, as a result, they will develop a strong sense of self discipline that can then be transferred to all aspects of their lives in the future.
Boost Your Metabolism
Intermittent fasting is a form of dieting recommended by fitness experts to help boost your metabolism and your overall wellbeing over time. For Muslims, fasting from sunrise to sunset does boost your metabolism and will help result in healthy weight loss as well as increasing your mental focus. Many also experience a decrease in the amount of the hormones produced adrenal gland, which can dramatically help reduce stress levels during and after Ramadan.
Eat Less and Stay Full For Longer
Before the month of Ramadan, you may find yourself eating three meals a day and snacking at every given opportunity. Whereas when you get to grips with fasting, your appetite and stomach naturally starts to shrink. As a result, you will adjust to eating less than normal when Ramadan is finished. This can benefit you in two ways: you will save money on takeaways and start to become more conscious of the foods you put into your body when you are hungry.
Psychological Effects and Mindfulness
There are psychological and mental benefits from fasting as well. You will have more time on your hands to reflect on the things that matter to you the most. Whether that means taking time to prioritise your self-care, spending more time with family or finding ways to give to the less fortunate, you become mentally connected to your spiritual self on a whole other level.
By the end of Ramadan, you may feel more motivated to pursue things that are more aligned with your authentic self and true calling in this world.
We would like to take this time to wish all our Muslim Melan Mag readers a peaceful Ramadan and very Happy Eid-Al-Fitr.
