Ramadan Preparations: Best Tips to Prepare for the Holy Month
Ramadan is a sacred as well as blessed time for Muslims across the globe. Muslims observe a fast of 29 to 30 days during Ramadan that begins with the arrival of the full moon. From sunrise to sunset, Muslims observe a fast during which they do not consume food or drink (and don’t smoke). The people are able to indulge with Ramadan preparations and make sahur (the conclusion to the fast) in addition to Iftar (the start of the meal) in the event that the moon’s sighting is declared (opening of fast). If it is clear that the moon will be visible people connect with one another and exchange greetings like Ramadan Mubarak as well as Ramadan Kareem. The festival concludes with the joyous Eid ul Fitr celebration, that lasts for three days. Following that, Muslims start to prepare for Ramadan during Shaban, the month that begins Shaban. They search for festive ideas and recipes to celebrate with joy Ramadan as well as Eid.
Ramadan meaning & significance
In the ninth month of Islamic calendar Ramadan which is also known as Ramzan is believed to be holy and auspicious. Ramzan is the month in which Muhammad (ﷺ) was the one to receive his first revelations from the Holy Quran, Muslims’ holy book. This is why Muslims pray, give to charities, and take part in celebrations with their friends after sunset. Muslims adhere to religious rituals like the Roza from dawn until the dusk hour, reading passages of the Holy Quran, praying to Allah (Salat) and gathered for the Iftaar (or dinner following sunset). During the month of Ramzan, all adult Muslims fast, except those who are sick, old, or pregnant/breastfeeding/menstruating women. Muslims begin preparations prior to Ramadan before the month starts to concentrate on fasting, while taking advantage of the blessings.
Ramadan preparations and other activities
Muslims around the world fast for the entire month of Ramadan regardless of ethnicity, nationality or race. This means that it can be difficult to plan to prepare for this Holy Month. Therefore, it is recommended to begin preparations in the month of Shaban. To aid in the planning Here is a suggestion for how to get ready for Ramadan and the related activities:
1. Get ready for Ramadan fasting
Shaban is the one that is preceding Ramadan according to the Islamic calendar. Shaban is an intermediate in between Rajab and Ramadan the two holy months. The people who celebrate this month make preparations for their fast of Ramadan. Furthermore, they are able to sometimes fast in order to build the discipline required to prepare for Ramadan fasting. Fasting is strictly forbidden in Islam until halfway through this month, Sha’ban that begins on the sixteenth date of Sha’ban. According to experts, one may fast during this time period, however it is completely voluntary. But the general counsel recommends that people avoid fasting during the final few days. This is to create the buffer between any fasting that is voluntary in Sha’ban as well as the mandatory fasting during Ramadan.
2. Maintain nutritious diet
Fasting through this month Ramadan is both a mental and physical strain. Thus, having a well-balanced diet prior to and throughout Ramadan is vital. The elements of a balanced diet are all in sync to keep the blood sugar levels constant and to provide ample energy. So whole grains fresh vegetables and fruits dairy, yogurt eggs, nuts, and yogurt are essential to include in your diet prior to as well during Ramadan.
The best Ramadan food items: Oatmeal topped with nuts and fruit and bread with a boiled egg, a piece of fruit and an ice-cold bowl of soup with vegetables or a piece of whole grain toast and glasses of milk with low fat.
3. Make a list of all duas
Reciting prayers and dua are essential parts of Ramadan customs. Muslims across the globe indulge in offering supplications to all-powerful Allah. So, it’s beneficial to organize these supplications and memorize them prior to entering this holy month called Ramadan. This will not only help save time, but it will also assist people concentrate on praying and bringing oneself closer to Allah the All-giving.
4. Reflect and recite sacred Quran
The Quran (sometimes called Quran (or Koran) is Islam’s most significant sacred text, one that Muslims believe to be a message by God (Allah). Muslims are advised to read the Quran and meditate on it to become close to God Almighty. A good deed performed prior to the holy month of Ramadan by taking time to reflect on the Quran is highly appreciated by Allah Almighty Allah during Ramadan. Each time a person goes through the Qur’an and discovers new meanings and the value of it in our lives. It is advised to read at a leisurely pace so that you can comprehend the message quickly. If needed, you can employ a translator to understand the verses.
5. Develop good habits
Although many people make resolutions as the New Year is upon us, Muslims use the month of Ramadan to establish Islamic resolutions. This is why Ramadan is the perfect time to establish and develop healthy habits that continue throughout the year and also to establish good rituals for religious practice. The best habits include enjoying every meal by offering a prayer to Allah and being courteous with other people, taking the time to pray for the Creator, doing charitable acts, and much more.
6. Ramadan Iftar food plan
Since Iftar is the perfect time to replenish the energy levels, it is recommended to try to eat meals from the various food groups, which includes vegetables and fruits grains, grains and alternative foods as well as meat and alternative foods. It is recommended to limit the use of oil instead, and steam or grill the food items in order to make food healthy.
Fruits and veggies: 2 portions of vegetables and two portions of fruit are recommended every day.
Rice and Alternatives Bread, brown rice along with whole-grain noodles comprise all complex carbs that provide energy as well as fiber and minerals to your body. They give you more steady and long-lasting energy levels than sweet food and desserts, which can burn fast.
Meat and alternatives Protein-rich food items such as lean meat skinless eggs, fish, poultry and lentils as well as dairy products with low fat content are essential to include in your diet.
7. Plan for Eid ul Fitr
The closing of Ramadan is celebrated during the 3 days Shawwal which is the Islamic calendar’s 10th month. People are eagerly preparing for Eid ul Fitr as it is the day that ends the month of holy for Muslims.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for Eid planning:
- Buy new garments for Eid
- Visit a large Central Mosque or an open-air field or a stadium to observe an Eid prayer
- Enjoy delicious food and drinks
- Exchange gifts
- Donate to those less fortunate
8. Using Ramadan planner
All the preparations can cause confusion and miss crucial Ramadan customs. It is beneficial to buy the Ramadan planner at the market in order to carry out every tradition and make the month more effective. There are numerous kinds of planners on the market for purchase at a reasonable price.
Ramadan is a wonderful opportunity to examine self-improvement, reflection in kindness, spirituality, and kindness. Therefore, Muslims must start Ramadan preparations as early as Shaban to fully take advantage of the blessings and benefits of this holy month.