Holy month not only for spiritual growth, brings health benefits too

Muslims around the world are set to begin observing the holy month of Ramadhan on March 1.

Habib Parkar, a devoted Muslim, has embraced the fast for the past 55 years. He explains that the physical toll during Ramadan—ranging from managing sugar levels to coping with stress, can be intense. “It’s like a machine that’s been running non-stop all year and is finally switched off. After the break, it functions better. That’s how it feels when you refrain from eating and drinking,” Parkar says.

He adds that during Ramadan, he experiences significant weight loss due to changes in his digestive system, which helps as he is overweight. It also aids in managing his insulin and balancing his sugar levels.

Hassan Ali, 47, has fasted since he was seven. He believes that, alongside the spiritual nourishment of Ramadan, there are notable health benefits for the body.

“When your stomach is full, digestion takes time, and your brain can become fatigued from the process. However, when you fast, your body undergoes detoxification as it abstains from eating, drinking, and consuming other substances,” Ali explained.

Imam Twaha Omar of Masjid Ibrahim Eveready, Nakuru says Ramadan, marked in the 9th month of the Islamic lunar calendar is considered one of the holiest months for Muslims worldwide. It is a time for fasting, prayer, and reflection.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims who are physically able to fast refrain from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs, including intimacy, from dawn until sunset. This act of fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam—the fundamental practices that form the core of the Muslim faith.

Beyond the physical discipline, fasting serves as a lesson in self-control and empathy, reminding individuals of the struggles faced by the less fortunate.

The day begins with Suhoor, a pre-dawn meal that fuels the body for the hours ahead. At sunset, the fast is broken with Iftar, a meal often started with dates and water, in keeping with the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad.

Ramadan is also a time for heightened devotion. Muslims are encouraged to increase their prayers and Quran recitation, immersing themselves more deeply in their faith. Special nightly prayers, known as Taraweeh, are performed in congregation at mosques or in the comfort of home for those who live far from places of worship.

Ramadan also emphasises on generosity. During this month, Muslims are encouraged to give back to those in need through acts of charity, known as Zakat and Sadaqah. Zakat, an obligatory form of charity, is paid by many Muslims during Ramadan, while Sadaqah—voluntary acts of kindness—are also strongly encouraged.

Among the most significant moments of Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power. This sacred night, believed to be when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, falls during the final 10 days of the month. Ramadan also brings families and communities together. Iftar meals, shared after sunset, are a cherished tradition, offering not just nourishment, but a chance to bond.

The month culminates in the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a holiday marked by communal prayers, feasting, and the giving of gifts. It’s a time for gratitude—both for the strength to complete the fast and for the blessings of family, friends, and faith. The dates of Ramadan vary each year, as the Islamic calendar is lunar, with the month beginning upon the sighting of the new moon, making each year’s observance a unique spiritual journey.