During Ramadan, many Muslims fast during daylight hours. The fast helps to purify the mind and body, as it is not just abstaining from eating and drinking, but also abstaining from sins and impure thoughts and acts such as lying, backbiting and cheating.
Of course, this means that there are many varied benefits the fast can bring. Here, we explore some of the principal benefits and explain how your fast can benefit your health all year round.
Physical Health and Wellbeing
There are numerous ways in which fasting can benefit your body and improve your general health and wellbeing.
Combined with healthy choices and plenty of hydration outside of the fasting period, your fast can help you to lose weight and become fitter and healthier. It is also the perfect opportunity to allow yourself to detox, cleansing your body and mind simultaneously.
In addition, there are many other benefits which can come as a handy side-effect of the fast, ranging from reducing cholesterol and lowering blood pressure to boosting energy levels and improving your skin.
Eye Health
Although it can be easy to take them for granted, our eyes are integral parts of our body and therefore, it is important to look after them. During Ramadan,we fast with our eyes as well as our minds, refraining from looking at sinful things or impure sights and instead, spending our time praying and studying in accordance with our faith.
We all know that dates carry many benefits, but this handy food also contains high levels of vitamin A, an essential nutrient which contributes towards eye health and can help to prevent issues such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
As you enjoy the dates on your table at suhoor and iftar, spare a thought for those around the world who do not have the same access to healthcare as we are lucky enough to take for granted. This Ramadan, consider donating to our cataract campaign and help us to provide life-changing cataract surgery to people in need around the world.
Mental Health
Of course, the fast does not just bring physical health benefits. Once your body has adjusted to the pattern of the fast, it will produce greater levels of endorphins which can help to improve your overall mood and help you stay focused throughout the day. In addition, ensuring that you sustain yourself with the right food during the fast will also contribute to this.
As well as this, the month of Ramadan provides the perfect opportunity to reflect and slow down the hectic pace of everyday life. Make time for increased amounts of prayer and do not shy away from meditation and relaxation. After all, this will help you to feel happier and more contented, as well as working to attain closeness to Allah (SWT).
As we continue through this auspicious month, there is no better time to reflect on your faith and learn how your fast is benefitting your mind and body. Ramadan is a time of prayer and devotion, faith and blessings; make sure that you are prepared to continue reaping the rewards of this most blessed month throughout the year.
