Ramadan is a special month for many of us. It revolves around the time; the biorhythm of nature. The Holy Month begins and ends depending on the phase of the moon and fasting happens from sunrise to sunset. Similarly, the Holistic Lifestyle encourages us to reconnect with time and the flow of nature.
Traditionally and spiritually this month is about moving away from overabundance to support our body, mind and soul through having the correct food, the right amount and at the appropriate time.
In order to achieve this, what we need, is our consciousness. When we are conscious about our actions and particularly the food that we put into our body, balance and harmony are easily within our reach!
Rather than adopting a mentality of overeating to compensate for the time spent fasting, spending this month to develop mindful eating habits and discovering other sources of energy is a wonderful practice that will only benefit us! This month is our chance to develop ourselves and blossom our relationship with God, with our loved ones and of course our own body, mind & soul.
Here are some Holistic tips to consider while fasting:
While fasting (before Iftar):
- Light exercises; partake in breathing outdoors (by the sea) right before Iftar. This will promote detoxification and help clear the mind.
- You can enjoy a short nap in the afternoon if necessary. However avoid switching your days and nights.
- Some Relaxing treatments can help cleanse the system as well as relax the body and mind. Ayurveda treatments during this time are best as they detox and nourish the body inside out.
Breaking your fast (during Iftar):
- Break your fast with 1 glass of warm water with slices of lemon and 1 or 3 soaked dates.
- Have a bowl of soup and then take a 15-30 minute break before continuing on with the meal. This will help you avoid overeating.
- Opt for fruits (papaya is perfect) as a snack an hour or so after Iftar. Have sweets in moderation, no need to deprive yourself but try limit to 1-2 times a week.
- If still hungry before bed, have a bowl of vegetable or fish broth, or a baked apple.
Preparing for next day of fasting (Suhour):
- Suhour: this meal is very important, just like breakfast! And it is best not to skip it! An ideal suhour would be porridge with 1 or 3 soaked dates, and a ripe banana.
- Hydrate: water is vital, but not as helpful as you may think when you drink a large amount at a time! Instead have your fluids (ideally water) spaced out throughout the evening by sipping gradually.
- Caffeine: this will drain you of your energy and make you more lethargic while fasting. Replace this with water, herbal teas, or even better a green juice!