Antara

The month of Ramadhan is an important period in the Islamic calendar. Throughout the whole month of Ramadhan, Muslims all over the world fast from the break of dawn until dusk. Each day they succeed in performing this act of servitude to the Almighty is the moment they feel true victory, and it is one that makes Ramadhan a month Muslims always welcome with enthusiasm.

Many things come into play when preparing for Ramadhan. Usually people make special dishes for the predawn meal. They also make other early preparations so they and the whole family can fast without any problems.

So, what must we prepare for the holy month?

First and foremost, is to prepare our hearts and minds; believe that Ramadhan is a rare moment when we are invited to worship the Almighty as solemnly as possible and improve our faith and piety so that we can become a much better individual.

With our strong commitment, we will perform each act of piety, including fasting, throughout the month of Ramadhan with peace of mind.

Daily necessities

We need to prepare our daily necessities, notably food, because usually shopping centers and markets are more packed during the month.

Easy-to-cook meals are usually a good choice for pre-dawn meals. So, preparing these foods prior to Ramadhan is important.

So that we can fast without any health problems, the pointers below may come in handy:

* Reset your sleep pattern

One of the most important things to do is resetting your sleep pattern.

If you are used to staying up late because you often need to bring work home or you like to binge-watch television shows, you may need to do something about this habit. You need to make it a habit to turn in early so that you can wake up in time for the predawn meal.

If possible, make it a habit to have 30-minute power nap to re-freshen your mind and body.

* Eat more fruits and vegetables

One of the keys to a healthy life is to eat high-fiber fruits and vegetables. The more fiber we consume, the better our body is able to metabolize food. When fasting, our body requires more fiber to avoid constipation. So, from now on, make it a habit to consume more fruits and vegetables.

* Schedule your exercise

With the fasting month upon us, you may want to start exercising. In other months, you may be used to jogging around your housing complex, but in the fasting month, you may opt for indoor exercises. Also, reschedule your exercises. If you usually exercise in the morning or in the afternoon, in the fasting month, you may shift the time to dawn or evenings after performing evening prayers.

* Stop snacking

To prepare for the fasting month, you may want to stop the habit of snacking between meals.

Stop spoiling your taste buds and stomach ahead of Ramadhan, so that when you are fasting for around 14 hours a day, your body won’t be shocked by the lack of snacks.

* Consume vitamin

Don’t forget to prepare vitamins during the fasting month. This is especially important as this year’s Ramadhan occurs during the dry season. When we are fasting, our body needs a steady supply of vitamin C so that our body stays in top shape. We also need vitamin D and vitamin E to ensure healthy bones and skin.

* Breaking the fast

People have their own preferences with regards to where and how they break the fast. Many opt to do it at home with loved ones, while others must have the meal at the office with co-workers due to their work hours. Those wanting to look for a different atmosphere may go to a restaurant, many of which, including those in hotels, offer special menus to break the fast.

* Homebound exodus

For those living in the city and away from their hometown, the Idul Fitri exodus has become a ritual and a necessity. Train and airplane tickets are available for booking three months in advance to anticipate the surging number of passengers. Buying your return ticket as early as possible is a wise move to avoid any hassles.

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