Are you ready for Ramadan?

Alhamdulillah! The blessed month of Ramadan is here! For Muslims across the globe, this is a sacred time of worshipping Allah (SWT). It is an opportunity for devotion, reflection and celebration of the mercy and love of Allah (SWT).

However, with many of us working, raising families and keeping to tight schedules, Ramadan can be quite a manic, busy time. 

We’ve gathered some tips to help you prepare and make the most of this holy month. Take a look!

6 tips to help you prepare for Ramadan

1. Increase your good deeds 

While we actively remember God, our minds are relieved from anxieties and worries, promoting peace and happiness within us which can help us become more focused and productive.

The Qur’an states:

It’s a good time to learn all you can of the many virtues of Ramadan and increase your religious knowledge in general. Reflecting on the Qur’an and Sunnah will help you move closer to God and understand your duties as a Muslim. Seek forgiveness for any transgressions, work on improving your character and make sincere Dua for yourself and those suffering all over the world.

2. Reflection is key 

Our daily lives are very busy and we are connected to one device or another most of the time. If we aren’t using our laptops, we are on our phones, or watching television. It’s important, especially in Ramadan, to create spaces that are calm and quiet to allow you to reflect and reconnect.

This doesn’t mean you need a total digital-detox, but perhaps consider taking just 10 minutes every day to sit alone in a quiet space to reflect. It may feel strange at first, but guide your thoughts towards your relationship with God, your purpose in life and how you could improve.

Being caught up in the busy pace of modern life for far too long, we may have forgotten how to sit still and simply think and reflect on the glory of God. We can use this slower pace of life to spend more time in worship to heal our soul.

3. Make a schedule for your worship 

With work, family commitments, meal preparation and many more things that we need to squeeze into the day, you may find it harder to put your good intentions into practice. 

However, by making a schedule you can plan how much Qur’an you will read in a day, when you’ll have a quiet period to make Dhikr, reflect and make Du’a. You’ll be able to set yourself realistic goals for the month ahead. 

With a clear idea of when and what you’ll be doing, you can ensure that you can fit your goals into this jam-packed month and stick to them Insha’Allah. Remember, small but consistent good deeds are the most precious of all!

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

4. Connect with and support your loved ones 

If you’ve fallen out with a friend or not talked to a family member in a while, then Ramadan is a great chance for a fresh start. Rebuild broken bonds, reach out to loved ones, ask for forgiveness and spend time with family and friends during this blessed month. 

You will feel a great sense of relief, while healing the hurt of others at the same time.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) was the most generous of people, and he was even more generous in Ramadan.

Reach out and check in with friends, family and neighbours.  It’s a great time to connect with and support those around us if needed. 

5. Take care of your health 

When fasting for long periods of time, it’s vital that you’re eating healthily, staying as hydrated as possible, and continuing some form of exercise to maintain good health. Find out more about what foods to eat and avoid, and other tips to maintain good health in Ramadan here. 

Try to avoid the midday sun to avoid becoming dehydrated. Go out earlier and later and stay inside during the day. Take a nap, pray, spend time with family or study. This way you’ll find yourself much less tired and avoid those sun-induced headaches when you’ve not had much water.