Ramadan is the holy month during which the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (SAW). Muslims worldwide observe fasts during Ramadan, and the month represents enhanced faith, growth, knowledge, abstinence, commitment, and togetherness. I have been fasting during Ramadan since I was in JS3/SS1 when I was about thirteen years old. It was more difficult when I was younger, but as I grew older, it became more manageable.

In recent years, I have started fasting a few days before Ramadan commences to get used to not drinking water during the day because your girl can drink water!! This year is no different. It’s day 2, and I’ve loved how dominating yet calming it has been so far.

I thought it’d be nice to share 10 reasons why I absolutely love this blessed month:

1. Spiritual Growth

Ramadan is a time for self-reflection, prayer, and fasting, which helps me grow closer to God and strengthen my faith. There’s something unspoken about how magical the month. If you’ve been in a fasted state for a long period, you will understand what I mean.

2. Community Spirit

The sense of unity and togetherness during Ramadan is truly heartwarming. People come together for Iftar (breaking of fast), lectures and prayers. Everyone is supported, encouraged and included.

3. Gratitude

Fasting during Ramadan reminds me to be grateful for all the blessings in my life, big and small.

4. Discipline

Abstaining from food and drink during the day teaches me self-discipline and willpower. It also reminds me that I don’t need to eat as much as I do.

5. Charity

Ramadan is a time to give back to those in need. I love being able to contribute to charitable causes and help make a difference in the world.

6. Health Benefits

Fasting has numerous health benefits, from detoxifying the body to improving digestion and boosting metabolism. Check out my post on the benefits of fasting.

7. Reflection

Ramadan encourages me to reflect on my actions and behaviour and strive to be better in all aspects of my life. In the quiet moments, when you wake up to pray in the early hours of the morning or when you’d rather stay in than go out, you have time for reflection.

8. Forgiveness

Ramadan is a time for seeking forgiveness and letting go of grudges. I love the sense of peace, calmness and forgiveness the month brings. In addition, it is believed that if you ask for forgiveness of sins on the night of majesty (Lailatul Qadr), all your sins get wiped away.

9. Sincerity

During Ramadan, I feel a deeper sense of sincerity in my prayers and intentions, which brings me closer to who I am as a person with myself, my relationships and my spirituality.

10. Eid Celebrations

Of course, Eid is a valid reason for loving Ramadan. I love the joy and celebrations that come with Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan. It’s a time to come together with my family to celebrate our accomplishments, renewed faith and blessings.

Overall, Ramadan is a truly special time of year that I look forward to and greatly anticipate. May this month bring blessings and peace to us all!

Mariam Shittu