MY WAY OF FASTING

It's always hard when Ramadan begins, even if you were born and raised as a Muslim. Hunger for me is bearable; it is the thirst that is the hardest. The key is to remember why you are fasting and I constantly reminded that people in poverty live like that every day. For me the first 10 days are the hardest. There are moments in the day when you feel a little nauseous but that passes very quickly. Usually that happens to me in the last 2-3 hours before Iftar & Fajr prayer. The rest of the time for me is fine; when I pick up the momentum it’s not difficult anymore. I prepare in the days ahead of Ramadan by eating less and less. As I am preparing my stomach and body for a period of fasting. I focus on taking in foods that are rich in complex carbohydrates and protein, fruits or vegetables, and plenty of water. For example: an egg on whole-grain toast, a few crackers with peanut butter, some orange slices, and two glasses of water. During the hottest part of the day, I stay in cool areas (indoors or in shade) and limit my physical activity. And I rest if possible. The Quran says fast but don't forget your everyday jobs during fasting so do not run away from work but try resting too and avoid unnecessary work. I really avoid gorging myself when breaking the fast at sunset. I follow the Sunnah: break my fast with sweets (I just wish I had a fruit dates) and milk, water, or fruit juice. After the Maghreb prayer, I continue with a light starter such as soup and crackers. After a long period of fasting, you need to bring your fluids and blood sugar level up without overdoing it. During the early evening (after Maghreb), I have a healthy and balanced dinner. I do not overeat, and I make it sure to drink a few more glasses of fluids. During the evening hours, I resist the temptation to drink tea, coffee, and soda. When visiting friends or family, I ask for glasses of water. I serve myself, my family, and guests a "dessert" of fresh fruit and nuts. There are lovely choices available in the market, and they are much healthier than chocolates and candy. I sip on water throughout the evening. Aim for 8 glasses by bedtime. To help me keep track, I fill and refill my GUC alkaline water bottle with a measured amount of water, and be sure to finish it. I do light exercise, such as walking and stretching for 15-20 minutes; this is best done in the evening hours. I avoid fried and spicy foods as they may cause heartburn or indigestion. Many people avoid brushing their teeth during the day in Ramadan. This is a mistake, since there is no contradiction between observing the fast and brushing one's teeth. YES, I continue to brush my teeth several times a day. As long as I do not swallow anything, my fast is still correct. The evidence for that is that the prophet peace be upon him allowed someone who gets very thirsty to put water in his mouth and then throw it out without drinking any drop. The ruling regarding brushing the teeth in Ramadan remains general. This means that it is recommended to brush one's teeth after every wudu and for every prayer, regardless of whether one is fasting or not, and regardless of whether it is in the morning of Ramadan or the afternoon. The Zuhr and Asr prayers are included in this general ruling just as the Fajr, Maghreb, and Isha prayers are included. Washing my hands regularly and I avoid those who cough or sneeze. This is important to prevent the spread of viruses and bacteria which may cause illness. I organize my schedule so that I get enough sleep. Lastly, speak out the kalma, La Ilaha Illallah Muhammadur Rasulullah as much as you can besides Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah and Astaghfirullah respectively. Well, don't forget to pray for Rasul Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam as he is the one we should be thankful to for the favors he has done for us and Allah will fulfill your desires if you pray for the Rasul. Fasting is not about a diet burning calories, rather a burning of pride, ego and sins...