“Caring for your body, mind, and spirit is your greatest and grandest responsibility. It’s about listening to the needs of your soul and then honoring them…” – Kristi Ling
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is an auspicious month filled with spiritual reflection, giving back to the community and fasting from dawn to sunset (BBC, 2021).
Why is Ramadan important?
During the holy month of Ramandan, one is far more conscious of their privileges: “by abstaining from things that people tend to take for granted (such as water), it is believed, one may be moved to reflect on the purpose of life and grow closer to the creator and sustainer of all existence,” (Jain, 2019).
Ramadan during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Compared to 2020, many countries are easing restrictions during Ramadan. Nevertheless, the fight is not over yet, there are still safety measures in place for instance, large gatherings are restricted.
Coping with emerging challenges during COVID-19 has led to pandemic fatigue, denoting that one is feeling restless, irritable, lacking motivation, difficulty concentrating on tasks, withdrawing from socializing or changes in eating and sleeping habits (WDG Public Health, 2020). This will amplify during Ramadan due to fasting, and therefore, practicing self care is imperative.
“If you feel burnout setting in, if you feel demoralized and exhausted, it is best for the sake of everyone, to withdraw and restore yourself…” – Dalai Lama
Ramadan Self Care for the Mind
- It takes 28 days to develop a new habit (Guardian, 2009). During the holy month of Ramadan direct your energy towards realistic goal setting to better improve your well-being. This will also encourage you to view Ramadan in a positive way, as opposed to perceiving the month as a challenge, after all “fasting is really about mind over matter” (Guardian, 2016).
- Sleep has more impact on one’s health than nutrition and exercise combined therefore, “try to sleep for at least 4 hours at night after Iftar, before waking for Suhoor and Fajr – and return to sleep for a couple of hours before getting up for the day ahead” (Cleveland Clinic, 2021).
Ramadan Self Care for the Body
- It is recommended to continue exercising for instance, lesser strenuous activities such as yoga and walking.
- During suhoor, opt for healthier meals and consciously plan your dishes for the week. For instance, “consume plenty of high fibre foods, such as wholegrains, high fibre cereals, bran, fruit and vegetables, lentils, dried fruits and nuts,” is highly recommended (British Nutrition Foundation, 2021).
- Drink plenty of fluids and hydrate yourself!
- It is common for the skin and hair to become dry and lack hydration during Ramadan, especially if one is located in climates with warmer temperatures (Cosmopolitan, 2020):
- Gently exfoliate your face and body for a youthful radiance and glow.
- Hydrate, moisturise, naturally restore your tissues and protect your cells against dryness with Coco Veda’s Age Defender Facial Night Oil.
- Boost your immunity to combat COVID-19 with Coco Veda’s Certified Food Supplement Grade Virgin Coconut Oil. Stay tuned for our next blog addressing this.
Ramadan Self Care for the Soul
“Self-care acts do not necessarily have to be self-oriented, it can aid those around us (Mohammed, 2021).” Acts of kindness, compassion, and empathy is encouraged in Islam, especially during a time when people are in need. Therefore, give back to society in a meaningful way: distribute clothes, food and essentials to charities or old age homes. Alternatively, volunteer to educate a child: instill these values in the next generation so that they can also create a positive impact in someone else’s life in the future.
This guide is a summarized version on Ramadan self care for the mind, body and soul. Do comment below to share any other suggestions, we would love to hear from you!
