As Ramadan is fast approaching, we are all set to devote yet another month in the name of Allah (SWT) and successfully maintain 30 new fasts every day. But as Muslims, we are always trying to better ourselves and our faith in the best ways possible, and Ramadan is indeed one of the best times to do this.
Today, we're breaking down the top nine tips that will help us make our fasts even better this year and help us become closer to Allah (SWT) and the holy Prophet (SAW).
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Sleeping immediately after Suhoor (the morning meal before sunrise) can cause digestive issues because your body has to work harder to digest food. At Suhoor, it's critical to stay hydrated and avoid caffeine and high-fat foods. Even lying for a short period of time without sleeping can cause problems such as acid reflux. If this is a problem you have previously faced during Ramadan, why not give this new routine a go?
Even though fasting can be physically exhausting, avoid becoming completely sedentary. If you usually exercise in the morning, see how your body reacts if you switch to evening exercise after breaking your fast. Strenuous exercise is not recommended during the day because it can quickly dehydrate you. Think small—short, easy walks (to classes or errands) or a few stretches can help you stay energized throughout the day.
Even if you don't feel thirsty, try drinking fluids several times throughout the night—thirst is a sign that your body is ALREADY dehydrated. Caffeinated drinks can dehydrate you, so choose fluids that don't contain caffeine. Breaking your fast with water at Iftar (the evening meal after sunset) is not only traditional, but it also ensures that you get the best source of hydration into your body before becoming distracted by food.
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Attending the Masjid to pray with the congregation, whether for the voluntary night prayers during Ramadan or any of the five obligatory daily prayers, brings 25–27 more rewards than praying alone, and this is especially true during Ramadan.
Offer a ride to a friend or another Muslim who is struggling to make ends meet on their own. Thanks to your assistance and kindness, you could obtain all of the rewards they receive for attending the Masjid with you.
Ramadan is also known as the month of almsgiving. During the Blessed Month, the Prophet (PBUH) is said to have been especially generous. Signing up for a campaign is a great way to automatically donate to great causes every single day in Ramadan with little effort.
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Fasting people may feel exhausted and tired as a result of fasting for long periods of time and sleeping late during Ramadan, which affects their activity and lack of speech, and this may be reflected in their faces. But trying to keep yourself positive can help lighten up the moods of everyone around you and help you gain rewards.
Even if you've already read or listened to Abdul Wahid Hamid's Companions of the Prophet, read or listen to it again this Ramadan. Every day, read or listen to the story of a Companion. This is a wonderful way to see how other Muslims maintained their faith in the face of incredible odds. It is well-written and brief. A guaranteed spiritual booster.
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The Quran is God's way of communicating with us. It's one of the most crucial keys to spiritual growth. Connect to the Quran in a new way this Ramadan. If you already read the Quran on a regular basis, consider focusing on a new theme or revisiting a Surah you haven't read in a while. If you don't read the Quran on a regular basis, you might be able to read it in two minutes a day, starting with the first page you see when you open the Book.
Furthermore, keep a Quranic journal to record your reflections, questions, thoughts, and so on about what you've read.
The last ten nights of Ramadan, known as the Nights of Power or Laylatul Qadr are some of the most beneficial nights to pray. Take advantage of these precious moments for heartfelt dua (supplication), self-analysis, reflection, and serious thought.