Ramadan, here I come.

Ramadan Mubarak!

I absolutely LOVE Ramadan and this year, like every year, have been looking forward to it for months. Although, for me, sometimes I struggle to fit everything in.

Let’s start with a bit about me - I live with my mum, dad and two sisters, work in the healthcare field full time, and run my own business. That’s normal for me, but in Ramadan, I want to go to the mosque for Taraweeh, host and attend iftar parties, and make time for extra Quran and reflection. Here are some things that I like to do to which help me through the month.

First, let’s set the scene. Living in the West, it’s so important to create a festive vibe. Decorating the house in Ramadan is the perfect way to add that special feeling to this holy month and bring the family together.

Something as simple as hanging up warm lights in my hallway makes everyone happy (especially those that struggle with suhoor).

Have a box of dates ready to break your fasts with. Get your timetable up on the fridge.

When it comes to work, I would advise anyone who’s working to have a sit down conversation with their manager or employer and discuss options for flexible working. Maybe a later start suits you. Maybe moving your lunch break to the end of the day so you can finish earlier works for your routine. Let your colleagues know that the month of Ramadan is upon us. Have conversations and explain it to them, and ask them to have a bit more patience with you. I’m sure they’ve been hangry before.

Next, coffee. I’m addicted! Those coffee withdrawal headaches on the first few fasts are the worst. To avoid them, I gradually make the switch to decaf a couple of weeks before Ramadan starts and try to cut down the number of cups I’m drinking. This year, iftar isn’t too late in the UK, so hopefully, there’ll be plenty of time to properly hydrate in the evenings, which should definitely help with those headaches too. Remember though, it’s better to pace and space your water rather than drinking two litres in one go.

Another thing I’d say is get your Eid outfits early! Imagine, it’s a week before Eid, you’re exhausted, and now you have to figure out what to wear. Your tailor is off sick, and everything good is sold out. The worst! No more rushing around ladies, this year we’re being organised.

Give each other gifts, have patience with each other, pass knowledge to each other, and remember, Ramadan is a gift to us, so let’s go into it with a positive mindset and clean intentions. Whatever you have going on this Ramadan, don’t let it pass without making the most of it.