10 ways to get the best out of Ramadan fasting

Ramadan is around the corner again. This is the month during which Muslims shun food from dawn to sunset in accordance with the dictate of Allah in the Quran Chapter 2 Verse 183: “Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you so that you may attain piety”. Apart from abstinence from food during the day, Muslims are expected to stay away from sexual intercourse, refrain from bad talk and act, as well as increase their good deeds. However, the month comes with its own challenges as it entails a lot of changes in the lifestyle of the faithful. Here are some tips to maximise the benefits of the month and minimise any stress.

1. Prepare properly

The month of Ramadan is a time when Muslims are expected to undergo a lot of changes in their lifestyle – physical, financial and spiritual. Therefore there is need to prepare ahead. Although there is reduction in intake of food by the faithful, additional expenses are incurred by the change in the quality of food, fruits and other items the Muslim consumes. There is therefore the need to stock certain types of food ahead of the month of Ramadan. On the spiritual plane, the Muslim is expected to fortify himself in readiness for the rigour of the month. Some scholars believe it is not a coincidence the month is preceded by two other months – Rajab and Shaban – when Muslims are required to fast. The fasts of the two months are meant to condition the Muslim for the purification of the soul and preparation of the body for the task ahead in the month of Ramadan.